Remember that AWD and stability control are no replacement for snow tires—which will maximize the traction both these systems have to work with.
Owner complaints seem to centre around the Tribeca’s power output. Loaded up with passengers and gear, passing and merging power would be meager at best. Making matters worse, the Tribeca required premium fuel. Some wished for a bigger glove-box, and a few comments were made about easily-scratched paint and interior panels.
Subaru’s been known to build a solid and reliable powertrain, and the Tribeca seems to be no exception. No systematic problems came up in the reliability department, and a well-maintained Tribeca should prove a trustworthy companion.
Though computer or sensor failures aren’t unheard of, these issues will tend to be apparent from the get-go on a test drive. Check the instrument cluster for any ‘Check Engine’ lights or ‘AWD’ system warning lights, which could indicate a problem.
Shoppers will want to ensure the Tribeca they’re considering has adequate tread left on all four tires, and that it’s not due for a brake job. Additionally, if the service history of the vehicle in question isn’t known, a trip to a Subaru dealership for a pre-purchase check-over is a good idea. Unless the model has been regularly dealer maintained, owners may wish to budget for a full fluid change too.
Inspect the paint for rust-- especially in the area around the rear wheelwells and around the door handles. A check underneath for excessive dents or scrapes and associated rust issues isn’t a bad idea, either.
Inspect the interior of the Tribeca for excessive wear, paying attention to the drivers-side footwell area and the plastic trim around the door and liftgate openings. Test-drivers will want to ensure all interior accessories, including windows and the sunroof, operate as expected, too.
While driving, note that any suspicious clunking from beneath the vehicle typically indicates a suspension component has finished its useful life and will require replacement. If you hear unwelcomed sounds from under the floor, be sure to find out what’s causing them.
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| 2006 Subaru Tribeca |
Owner complaints seem to centre around the Tribeca’s power output. Loaded up with passengers and gear, passing and merging power would be meager at best. Making matters worse, the Tribeca required premium fuel. Some wished for a bigger glove-box, and a few comments were made about easily-scratched paint and interior panels.
Subaru’s been known to build a solid and reliable powertrain, and the Tribeca seems to be no exception. No systematic problems came up in the reliability department, and a well-maintained Tribeca should prove a trustworthy companion.
Though computer or sensor failures aren’t unheard of, these issues will tend to be apparent from the get-go on a test drive. Check the instrument cluster for any ‘Check Engine’ lights or ‘AWD’ system warning lights, which could indicate a problem.
Shoppers will want to ensure the Tribeca they’re considering has adequate tread left on all four tires, and that it’s not due for a brake job. Additionally, if the service history of the vehicle in question isn’t known, a trip to a Subaru dealership for a pre-purchase check-over is a good idea. Unless the model has been regularly dealer maintained, owners may wish to budget for a full fluid change too.
Inspect the paint for rust-- especially in the area around the rear wheelwells and around the door handles. A check underneath for excessive dents or scrapes and associated rust issues isn’t a bad idea, either.
Inspect the interior of the Tribeca for excessive wear, paying attention to the drivers-side footwell area and the plastic trim around the door and liftgate openings. Test-drivers will want to ensure all interior accessories, including windows and the sunroof, operate as expected, too.
While driving, note that any suspicious clunking from beneath the vehicle typically indicates a suspension component has finished its useful life and will require replacement. If you hear unwelcomed sounds from under the floor, be sure to find out what’s causing them.
 |
| 2006 Subaru Tribeca |