This "fix" bypasses the park-range switch that often fails in 2015-2018 or 19 Outbacks. My wife's Outback has not had a key stuck since I put in the jumper wire and no dash lights have come on (the key was getting stuck regularly). The only risk may be that you can now remove the key with the car in drive, neutral, etc. If you can't live with that risk, then you better replace the switch per Subaru service bulletin # 16-112-18R (https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10153178-9999.pdf). This same method may be able to be applied to other Subaru models. Many modern Subarus use a similar wiring harness and wiring color scheme within the shifter console. If you want to try it on your own car, do so at your own risk. Also, remember to make a video so we can all benefit from your effort.
Video of repair is here : https://youtu.be/DCM5KqpBIgg
or by searching "Subaru Outback Stuck Key in Ignition / Park Range Switch Bypass Fix / Repair / How-to".
I had the same ignition/shift problem with my Outback. Ignition locked up, would not release key, could not get the gearshift to register what gear I put it in when I parked. when I called the dealership to make an appointment, they knew right away what the problem was, and they had the computer chip that was the fix for this in stock. This indicated to me that this is a recurring problem with this model. I asked the Service Rep, and she indicated that Forresters and Outbacks are having this problem, and that it might end up being a recall. This cost me 400 to get fixed, and I have an extended warranty. Wondering if there is any recourse. I love my Outback. This is my 5th one. Not in love with my dealership any more.
Ignition will not release key and rear hatch will not open until sensor in shift column detects that shift knob is in park. Transmission is in park as indicated by front display. Have to play with shifter, sliding through selections and hard back into park. Somewhat unpredictable process. Dealer says that the sensor is built into the shift column, and so the entire part has to be replaced. ~$250 part and 3hr labor. The engineers obviously thought that this was a reliable part.
ignition switch can't complete cycle, have to restart car
AT 20K miles, the ignition switch has been toying with me for several months now; to the point that I think I am at fault. Every other day or so, the ignition won't complete the cycle as I push in the key, (car is in park) to shut it off and then pull out my key. It will stop abruptly before the last click. You cannot get the ignition and key to sync unless you restart the car. On one occasion, I couldn't get the key to move at all. I also could not disengage the Emergency brake. I waited awhile, called a friend to see if I could get a ride home, then, get a tow service to tow car to dealer. I tried the car again, it restarted, and I drove home. Two days later as I pulled into the driveway, it happened again. This time, I had a friend with me and it was verified that it was not me. Tonight, as I pulled into the driveway, it happened again.
As a random or intermittent problem, when would you take your car to the dealer? Has anyone else had this experience with a 2016 Outback w/20K? Thanks
Update from Feb 7, 2018: As of Feb 7th 2018, my ignition switch is still a problem. However, I find that if, when I am going to park, I must have the steering wheel placed exactly as if I am going to go straight. My husband says I should be very concerned.
Over Super Bowl, I learned by neighbor is having the same trouble with her new Forester.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I've already done this in my reply today to John A. where he said he is having the same issue. It's all there.
- Stephenie M., Kennewick, US