2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca Review
Price Estimate: $1,644 - $2,660
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Seven-passenger seating, standard all-wheel drive, swift acceleration, all essential safety features come standard, most refined Subaru vehicle to date.
Cons
- Unusual styling may limit mass appeal, less third-row and cargo room than competitors, soft handling, pricey for a Subaru.
What’s new
Subaru introduces its new flagship vehicle, the seven-passenger Subaru B9 Tribeca. It's a car-based SUV designed off a stretched version of the Legacy/Outback platform.
Edmunds says
A step up in size and luxury from the Outback, the 2006 B9 Tribeca is a logical progression of the Subaru model lineup with all of the right stuff to take on its toughest competition in the crossover SUV segment.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
23 listings
- 145,960 miles
- 149 mi away
- 4WD
- Front Heated Seat
- Manual Sunroof
- Keyless Entry
- Tow Hitch Receiver
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Located in Belle Vernon, PA
You will instantly feel at home once you step into this Subaru B9 Tribeca. For added security, an extended warranty is available. Ask a sales associat...
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 4S4WX85C664423394
- Stock:
- 5762
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 08-10-2024
- 94,102 miles
- 5 Seats, 16 City / 21 Hwy MPG
- 150 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
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Located in Schnecksville, PA
***LEHIGH VALLEY TRUCK N AUTO*** Is pleased to offer you an excellent variety of vehicles, where our quality & great prices meet together. We have num...
- Features and Specs:
- 18 Combined MPG (16 City/21 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 4S4WX82C764424414
- Stock:
- 424414
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 06-04-2026
Vehicle overview
The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca is an SUV with optional seven-passenger seating that's designed to go up against the Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot. With its slight wheel flares, high rear beltline and snubbed front end and airplane-shaped grille, the Tribeca SUV is the first Subaru vehicle to receive new design elements that are expected to carry over to future models.
Its unusual name is not without real meaning, B stands for boxer engine, and nine is an internal chassis designation. It is also the largest and most expensive Subaru ever, with prices starting over $30,000 for the five-passenger model and over $37,000 for a seven-passenger Tribeca Limited. The B9 Tribeca is based on a stretched and widened version of the Subaru Outback platform. The new body structure is 22-percent more rigid, with a 55-percent increase in bending stiffness. That taut structure combines with a revised front suspension and a new double-wishbone rear suspension, which replaces the Outback's multilink setup, to provide a compliant ride.
The Subaru B9 Tribeca easily soaks up bumps, even over a rutted stretch of dirt and gravel road. Like all Subaru vehicles, the Tribeca is offered with only all-wheel drive. Power comes from the same 3.0-liter horizontally opposed boxer six-cylinder engine also found in the Outback. It's rated at 250 hp and 219 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a highly modified version of the Outback's five-speed automatic transmission equipped with SportShift to allow manual shifting. Available in both five- and seven-passenger models, and in base or Limited trim, an elegant dash lays out more features than ever before available in a Subaru, including a stunning touchscreen GPS navigation system on the upper Limited trim.
Standard is a 100-watt single CD/MP3 stereo with six speakers, while the Limited model upgrades to a 160-watt unit with in-dash six-disc CD changer with MP3 compatibility, eight upgraded speakers and a subwoofer. Second-row passengers will have no trouble getting comfortable with 34.3 inches of legroom, plus their seatbacks recline. Unfortunately, those in the third row aren't as lucky. With its limited legroom and obstacle course entry which forces passengers to climb over the corner of the second row, the third-row seat is for occasional use only. With its features combined, the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca offers an impressive overall package. Subaru's competent boxer engine and all-wheel-drive system combined with a lengthy list of standard safety equipment and a luxurious, feature-laden interior make this new flagship a vehicle worth considering, even among the top competitors.
Performance & mpg
The all-wheel-drive B9 Tribeca uses the same 250-hp 3.0-liter horizontally opposed boxer six-cylinder engine found in the Outback mated to a highly modified version of the Outback's five-speed automatic transmission equipped with SportShift to allow manual shifting.
Safety
On the Subaru B9 Tribeca, everything relevant to safety is standard, including four-channel/four-sensor brakes with ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). Also standard is traction and stability controls, seat side-impact airbags and dual-stage deployment airbags in the front with an occupancy detector for the passenger seat, plus side curtain airbags to protect rear passengers. Crash test scores are not yet available.
Driving
Even with the Tribeca's substantial weight of 4,200-plus pounds, it's never at a loss for power. There's plenty of midrange muscle, and the Subie easily tackles varying road terrain. Subaru automatics have a tendency to hunt for gears during mountainous driving, but this is not the case in the Tribeca, as its reprogrammed transmission holds low gears when needed without early upshifts. Steering, however, is a bit light for a vehicle of such girth, which accentuates the Tribeca's heft. On the road, the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca drives like a big, heavy truck.
Interior
All rear-seat riders are bound to enjoy the optional rear 9-inch DVD entertainment system with two sets of wireless headphones, remote control and auxiliary input for video games, an option on the seven-passenger Tribeca Limited. A 50/50-split third-row bench and 40/20/40-split second-row are standard, but cargo capacity is limited to 8.3 cubic feet with all seats up and expands to 37.6 cubic feet with the third row folded flat and 74.4 cubes with the second-row seatbacks folded forward. The Highlander and the Pilot offer a fair bit more.
2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca models
The Subaru B9 Tribeca SUV comes in five- or seven-passenger seating configurations with either base or Limited trim. Base five-passenger Tribecas come with a 100-watt AM/FM single-disc CD player, power front seats, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The five-passenger Tribeca Limited adds leather seating and a 160-watt stereo with six-disc CD changer. Base seven-passenger Tribecas advance to a 50/50-split rear seat and heated front seats. Seven-passenger Tribeca Limiteds can be upgraded to include a navigation system, rear DVD entertainment system, or both.

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners are particularly drawn to the Subaru B9 Tribeca's all-wheel-drive system, which consistently impresses with its stability and confidence in adverse weather conditions, be it snow, rain, or mud. The vehicle's handling stands out, delivering a smooth and controlled ride that makes long-distance travel comfortable and less fatiguing. Drivers often praise the interior design, finding the cabin spacious and luxurious, with comfortable seating that accommodates long legs and provides ample room for both passengers and cargo. The adjustable second-row seats add to the flexibility of the interior, allowing for various passenger and cargo configurations. Many find the vehicle's unique styling appealing, appreciating that the Tribeca doesn't blend in with the typical SUV crowd. The navigation system and rear DVD entertainment option are popular features, valued for their utility and ease of use during family travels. Enthusiasts of the model also appreciate the feeling of solidity and safety, often highlighting the high ratings and positive experiences during unforeseen incidents. Despite being a larger vehicle, its agility and responsiveness, especially when shifting manually with the SportShift feature, make it a joy to drive. Lastly, the vehicle's reliability, when well-maintained, is often noted, with some owners confident in the longevity of their Tribeca, making it a vehicle they're happy to hold onto for the long haul.
Common Issues
Owners of the Subaru B9 Tribeca frequently report frustrations with the vehicle's electrical and electronic issues. Headlights are a common point of contention, with many finding the low beams ineffective and potentially hazardous in dark or rural areas due to poor illumination. Another frequent complaint involves persistent dashboard warning lights, particularly the tire pressure sensor, which often sends false alarms regardless of actual tire conditions. The vehicle's fuel efficiency doesn't meet expectations for its class, with many drivers noting significantly lower mpg than advertised, particularly in city driving conditions. Some Tribeca owners have experienced issues with the transmission, citing hesitation during acceleration and inconsistent gear shifting that can detract from the driving experience. Problems with the vehicle's air conditioning and heating systems have also been mentioned, with malfunctions leading to discomfort in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, the absence of Bluetooth connectivity without aftermarket installations is a downside in an era where such features are expected. The third-row seating is another concern, often described as cramped and only suitable for occasional use by small children. Finally, parts availability for the Tribeca can be a hassle, with owners reporting difficulty in obtaining specific components and sometimes facing high repair costs due to their scarcity.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
Everyday drivers find the Subaru B9 Tribeca to be a mixed bag of practicality and frustration. On a day-to-day basis, the Tribeca excels in delivering a comfortable ride with its upscale interior and thoughtful ergonomics, making it a pleasant companion for long commutes or family road trips. Owners appreciate the confidence provided by its all-wheel-drive system, especially in challenging weather conditions, underscoring its reputation for handling and stability. However, the vehicle's inclination towards electrical gremlins, like erratic warning lights and unreliable headlight performance, often detracts from its overall perceived reliability. While the acceleration and handling are praised for agility once underway, the fuel inefficiency and erratic transmission behaviors can frustrate those seeking both power and economy during daily drives. Although the adjustable second-row seats offer flexible cargo arrangements, the third row remains suitable only for short trips with smaller passengers. Maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable, especially with parts scarcity affecting servicing ease, causing concern among owners planning for long-term ownership. Finding a balance between the plush interior experience and the mechanical quirks becomes an ongoing journey for Tribeca drivers. Navigating the quirks of this unique SUV requires patience and a bit of technical savvy.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$318/mo for B9 Tribeca 5-Passenger
B9 Tribeca 5-Passenger
vs
$215/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Reliability
The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 8 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
8 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 19V297000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- WUF-91
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-04-09 to 2005-06-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 511
- Defect Description:
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
- Defect Consequence:
- The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
- Recall Number:
- 17V026000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- TKB-17
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-04-27 to 2006-04-12
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 69529
- Defect Description:
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2009 Forester, Legacy and Outback and 2006-2009 Impreza (including WRX and STI models) and Tribeca vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-17.
- Recall Number:
- 17V016000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- TKC-17
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-12-22 to 2008-04-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 62764
- Defect Description:
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2006-2008 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), Tribeca, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-17.
- Recall Number:
- 17V014000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- TKA-17
- Manufactured from:
- 2008-01-11 to 2012-05-16
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 53480
- Defect Description:
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
- Recall Number:
- 16V359000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- TKB-16
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-12-22 to 2008-04-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 135696
- Defect Description:
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2006-2008 Impreza, Tribeca, 2006 Saab 9-2x, and 2003-2006 Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began July 29 2016, a second letter will be mailed to owners when parts are available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-16. Note: This notice is only for vehicles that were not covered by 16V-358 for Zone A.
- Recall Number:
- 16V358000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- TKA-16
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-12-22 to 2011-08-16
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 159274
- Defect Description:
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
- Recall Number:
- 16V060000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- WQX-59 and
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-11-16 to 2014-01-27
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 77000
- Defect Description:
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2006-2014 Tribeca vehicles manufactured November 16, 2004, to January 27, 2014. Due to a possible malfunction of the hood safety system and hood lock system, the hood may open unexpectedly while driving.
- Defect Consequence:
- If the hood unexpectedly opens while driving, it may interfere with the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will complete this recall in two phases. Phase one will involve inspection, cleaning, and lubricating the hood safety and hood lock systems. If after this is performed the hood latch does not operate properly, it will be replaced with a new current style part. Phase two will involve installing an improved hood safety system and hood lock system. Interim notification was mailed March 4, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQX-59 (phase one) and WQY-60 (phase two).
- Recall Number:
- 12V602000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- WQE-41
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 633842
- Defect Description:
- Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
- Defect Consequence:
- Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Subaru B9 Tribeca Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(73%)
4(18%)
3(7%)
2(2%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Timing Chains break - No support from Subaru
3.13 out of 5 starsob108, 06/20/2013
2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca 5-Pass. 4dr SUV AWD w/Gray Int. (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
This comment is dated, but I was looking for a recall notice. While your story is not a good one, here is one better. Less than 84000 miles on it when the timing chain fails. That cause the cam gear to fail and the dealer says they don't replace timing chains they replace motrs if they fail Scary I thought. I fix it and $2400 lighter it was running again only to find out that the main … bearing was damaged and cannot be fixed. That's why the replace motors. You would think that Subaru would stand behind one of their most expensive models. Nope I am on my own. To them I thank them for eduacating me that I will never trust them again.
Huge Disappointment!
1.88 out of 5 starsUnhappy, 04/29/2009
2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca Ltd. 7-Pass. 4dr SUV AWD w/Beige Int. (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
Boy, am I disappointed and angry. This B9 started breaking down at approximately 40,000 miles and has not run properly since, despite four trips to the dealership. I lost all compression and had to have 2 Valve intakes, 2 valve exchanges, 13 o rings, and several gaskets replaced. It took two breakdowns to get this fixed. Now, one cylinder is not functioning. The dealership is not … wanting to admit that this is a lemon and replace it as they should. I have contacted the national Subaru corporation for all the good it will do me. Be careful if you buy this auto. You too could get stuck with a lemon.
Great...for a while.
3 out of 5 starsBianca, 02/27/2018
2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca Ltd. 7-Pass. 4dr SUV AWD w/Nav, Gray Int. (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
Bought this car used in 2013 with about 78k. This was the first car I bought on my own! Previously had a 1998 Chevy cavalier (my first car I got in high school)! The subaru was a 7 passenger, limited, grey interior, with navigation. I LOVED this car when I first bought it. It was comfy, roomy, and had everything I needed and more! In 2015 my check engine light came on, the car would … shake horribly, and completely struggled to accelerate...uh oh! But, problems are to be expected in a 9 year old car! Took it to a local shop to see what the problem was. Store owner claimed to love this vehicle and knows all about them...yeah...! Told me it was the battery connection and changed the battery for me. Great! Check engine light turned off, shaking stopped, accelerating went back to normal. I’m good to go, or so I thought. Nope! I live in Nebraska and the weather can change at the drop of a hat. Began raining one day, about two weeks later, and all the problems came back. Took it back to the shop twice before they decided to shut down their store without notice and without actually fixing the problem. Cool, what a waste of $500. Whatever, problem came and went as the weather changed for over a year. Weird, but apparently this vehicle is notorious for that, according to other reviews and subaru forums. Fast forward to 2017. The problem continued to come and go, but now the car was over heating and air conditioning wasn’t working (in the awesome heat of the summer - had upper 90’s this summer). Yay! Took it to multiple Subaru mechanics and NO ONE I mean NO ONE could figure out the problems. Kept driving, probably dumb, but oh well. Finally the power steering went out...while I was getting onto the highway. Let it sit for two weeks or more while I looked at buying a car. Well, as I was taking it in to be traded in it literally shut off, like the entire thing. Wouldn’t drive, lights turned off, compass on rear view mirror had all the lines flashing with it making no actual letter, wouldn’t accelerate, and lord knows what else was happening (I was in panic mode because I was on a main road). Finally had it towed to a local Subaru specialty shop and a NON-Subaru mechanic figured it out! Turns out the previous shaking was caused by a bad spark plug, like the wiring inside. The rest of the problems were caused by the serpentine belt going out (just under $300 for parts and labor). Car was back up and running, until about a month later when the check engine light came on again. Took it to autozone to check the code...it was the 3rd spark plug again which was causing me to drive on five cylinders instead of six. Light never turned off (since about November 2017), then started over heating again and the inside of the car was not warming up...aka, my windows wouldn’t defrost...in the middle of winter, cool, literally! Anyways, decided to go with a Honda CR-V this time around due to the massive headaches this thing was causing me. I turned in the keys with about 151k. Overall, it’s a good car, but left me with massive headaches when no one could figure out how to fix the problems. Last note, the car does not get 18/23 mpg. It’s more like 12/15. I was averaging 13 mpg since I drive highway (which bottlenecks during rush hour) and city. Will I buy a Subaru in the future, I don’t know. If I do, it’ll be a legacy or Forester or a more “popular” car because parts are VERY LIMITED in the States for this vehicle. Hope this was helpful for someone looking into this vehicle!
Best Car Ever!
5 out of 5 starsCandy Larsen, 06/11/2019
2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca Ltd. 7-Pass. 4dr SUV AWD w/DVD, Gray Int. (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
Bought my 2006 used from a dealer. I drive up to 800 miles a week. This SUV has NEVER had a single issue. With time, I have replaced the life gate support which I popped in myself and I do the wipers myself. Contrary to other comments regarding oil changes and service needed to be done at a dealer is bogus. I now have over 200K on this SUV and recently had my cats replaced and the … bushings replaced, all at a cost of under $800. That is the most expensive repair to date and is to be expected with that much mileage. I will be buying another Subaru, but not for awhile. With regular maintenance and assurance from my mechanic, I know this SUV is good for another 200K. The acceleration and MPG is fantastic. Thanks Subaru!
2006 B9 Tribeca Features & Specs
5-Passenger
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $30,695 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $318/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 37.6 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the B9 Tribeca include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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