Vibration under low Acceleration [Archive]

wackojacko

08-22-2008, 07:51 AM

B9LTD83

08-23-2008, 09:52 PM

sounds like a bad balance of the tires... either that or if you hit a curb or a big pot hole, you probably need an alignment

wackojacko

08-25-2008, 07:57 PM

sounds like a bad balance of the tires... either that or if you hit a curb or a big pot hole, you probably need an alignment

I would normally think that but it does not occur at high speeds, which would be balance. I think it's a gear ratio problem. More wondering if anyone else has experienced it and had a resolution with their dealer. No pot holes or curbs either. I've had both alignment and balance issues in my driving history and I'm sure that it's not that. But thanks for the suggestions.

Anyone else...

Magic Marker

08-26-2008, 06:01 AM

It's dealer time

hawker800mech

08-29-2008, 08:54 AM

Does it do it in any gear at the same speed? Try it in different gears in manual mode.

Have you been using a different brand of fuel or maybe try a different brand of fuel? I notice my B9 is very moody with different brands and with the seasonal fuel blends.

wackojacko

08-29-2008, 04:22 PM

Fuel is interesting - I always buys my gas from Canadian Tire gas bar (I'm in Canada of course) Maybe try filling up elsewhere.

It seems to be when the RPM's are low. Could be in 4th or 5th I beleive. It's been reduced in the last week as I've tried to drive conservative to see how good I can get the fuel economy. Keeping acceleration under 20% and crusing at 5-10% acceleration. Fuel economy has been greatly improved - like 20% from 16 to 18 MPG on the computer. It still vibrates but not as strong.

I will try the gas with my next fill up and tell you how that tank goes.

hawker800mech

08-31-2008, 07:43 PM

I think it may be the engine computer doing its thing and maybe a different fuel may improve it. I have the 3.0l and it hates being below 1500 rpms, but it is a higher revver than the 3.6l. What kind of rpms are you talking about when it jutters? A little different, but a friend of mine has an older Mustang with a high rev cam and it shakes the car below 1500 rpms when driving steadily. It may be a trait with our engine. I know my old OB at idle would wobble at idle (and was kind of anoying). A common trait due to the solid rubber engine mounts.

wackojacko

09-01-2008, 08:39 AM

Hey Hawker,

Not sure on the exact RPM but probably around 1500, I know it's 5-15% on the acceleration meter on the centre display.

I just filled up yesterday with another brand (Petro Canada) this time. Still only 87 ocatane though. Drove about 70 miles and it seems to have decreased. Will see how this tank goes and let you guys know the results.

Sucks I get a good deal and the Canadian Tire gas station but I rather have a smooth ride then a good deal.

Sutton Tribeca

11-18-2008, 10:19 AM

I know this thread is a little old, but did you ever get anywhere with this? I have an 08, 7 pass w/ Nav/RSE and it's done it since I've had it. It happens under low acceleration when tranny is in lockout. Most noticable on the highway on slight inclines or flats where you try to maintain a speed of about 45-60 mph.

I've had it to the dealer in the past to get it looked at...They couldn't replicate the problem. Today I went for a ride with the tech and demonstrated. He did some research and tells me it's normal.

I don't like the explaination. I've had lots of cars and I've spent enough on this car to not have this problem. It's frustrating.

wackojacko

11-18-2008, 03:33 PM

I guess it good to hear I'm not alone. I'm due for an oil change soon, actually going to switch to Synthetic at that time. Going to ask them to investigate. All my friends think it is not normal so I hope my dealer doesn't tell me the same thing as yours.

Sutton Tribeca

11-19-2008, 05:30 AM

You're not alone. This is actually my wife's car and I've been taking it to work for the last couple of days. Needless to say, I'm much less tolerant than she is about the issue. It's most noticable as I I slightly accelerate on the highway, and I would have never bought the car if it performed like this. I just spoke with a transmission shop and I'm going to get a second opinion. A description of the problem to them prompted them to say - "there's no way a car in 08 should have lockup chatter" and I would agree.

I'm not going to let this go - it's either it gets fixed or I'm going to leave the car on their lot!

Sutton Tribeca

11-23-2008, 07:51 AM

I heard from the dealer on Friday. The apparently had another car come into the dealership with a similar problem. They have since contacted Subaru and are working on a resolution. We'll see how long this takes, but I'm going to keep in touch with them. They state that it's not doing any harm to the vehicle, but that it's definitely not right and that it will be fixed. They just don't know what's causing it just yet! I'll keep you updated.

schnoofty

02-14-2009, 06:15 PM

I have had the same issue since new. 08 Premium Tribeca in Australia,

The dealer has said it is the torque converter and they are replacing it under warranty. Apparantly it is out of balance and as you accelarate you drive through the vibration. I get the car back next week. Lets hope this is the fix as it is very annoying. They have had a number of complaints about this from what I have been told.

schnoofty

02-27-2009, 08:04 PM

My vibration has been fixed with new torque converter and a sensor in the transmission. It now rides beautifully. All done under warranty.:)

Sutton Tribeca

03-19-2009, 10:56 AM

Great to hear. I opened up an issue with Subaru USA.

I ended up going back to the dealer a couple of weeks ago. i'm told that there is a "new" torque converter that will be available in 2-7 weeks. The dealer is going to wait for that and install that as the fix.

Magic Marker

03-19-2009, 05:25 PM

So is this primarily an 08 thing?

wackojacko

03-19-2009, 05:51 PM

So is this primarily an 08 thing?

According to the Subaru Technical Information System website, http://techinfo.subaru.com it’s the 08 & 09 that list the issue.

Go under the Reference Publications tab at the top and then 2008 or 2009, and Tribeca.

Then click on the Subaru Bulletins > Technical Service Bulletins (http://techinfo.subaru.com/html/ixSearchKwBu.jsp?model_year=2008&vehicle_line=Tribeca&publication_type=16&text_keyword=&keyword=&bulletin=3)

Towards the bottom is 5AT Torque Converter Shudder/Vibration (225.23 kb) 16-74-09

5AT Torque Converter Shudder/Vibration

Service Bulletin #16-74-09
Pages: 2

Bulletin Description: If you encounter a vehicle that has a shudder/vibration which could be felt in 3rd, 4th and 5th gear during slight acceleration, it may be caused by the transmission torque converter during lockup operation. A countermeasure was made to the final machining process of the sliding surface for the lock up clutch to provide more stabilization and eliminate the shudder/vibration.

This is exactly my issues, I thought it had subsided or reduced but it’s back.

Not sure what their solution is, maybe replace torque converter? I find out.

Sutton Tribeca

03-20-2009, 02:28 AM

My dearer tells me that they are going to replace the torque converter...I'll update once I have more info. My dealer doesn't even have the new converter on order yet, they say it's not available, but it would seem to me they could order it anyway.

I'm bringing the car in on Monday for new bushings anyway. I'll see what they have to say.

mwoo68

10-17-2009, 02:04 PM

Hi Guys,

Had my 08 w/DVD & NAV since January. For the last few months I've noticed a vibration when under low acceleration. Anywhere from 60-80 KM's or 35-50MPH If the acceleration is around 5-10% (on the display) the vehicle vibrates. Don't feel it in the steering wheel so I'm assuming it's in the backend (feel it throughout the vehicle though)

Feels similar to when a manual transmission is shifted into a higher gear too early. Was just at the dealer but did not bother asking, thought it better to check with my brothers and sisters here to get an idea before I pay for some inspection.

Let me know if anyone else has experienced this.

Thanks.

I know this thread is old, but I gotta a problem that might be similar. I am from GTA as well.

I just picked up an '09 Tribeca Premiere and all seems fine except when I'm going around 70km to 80km an hour. On the smoothest of new paved ashpalt, I can feel vibrations in my butt, but is not present at other speeds up or down, seems only between 70-80 as most evident. I even notice this when I release the gas (coasting), I can feel this vibration! Do I have the same situation as you? What fix did they do and did it work?

Thanks!
mwoo68

Sutton Tribeca

10-17-2009, 05:28 PM

I had the torque converter replaced, and well it's better but it's not completely gone. I still have an open issue with Subaru USA, but it's hard to get back to the dealer.

This is a known issue, it happens at speed under slight acceleration. I'm sure if you take it to a dealer they'll know what to do... The fix is to replace the torque converter with a newer revision. I have no idea what the difference is, but it did help.

Unfortunately now that they replaced it, I get a hard shift out of park...I hope that's something they can adjust...

I'm actually due for an oil change so I'll let them look at this all sometime in the next two weeks.

Good luck!

yamahaman09

10-20-2009, 12:44 PM

Hi all,

I have this same exact problem. I do city style driving 90% of the time and it happens at least twice a day in the speed range from 20-40 mph. I have around 13,000 miles on it now. This has been an ongoing problem since I bought the car in November of '08. It was a brand new '09.

The car was brought to the dealer at least three times for this problem and at the end of the day nothing changed. I even broke down in Boston Massachusetts and it was towed to the dealer. To fix it they simply reprogrammed the transmission. It didn't do anything.

I even sent Subaru a lemon law letter because i felt the dealer was not doing anything. Subaru technical came and looked at with the resolution "that's how it's suppose to perform". This transmission is a lemon and Subaru has failed to realize it. Now they are putting it in all their new cars. I hope America will wake up and demand a recall.

mwoo68

10-20-2009, 12:52 PM

LORE BECA

10-21-2009, 10:18 AM

How many miles do you guys have on cars to notice this, mine is 09 TRIBECA and not had it yet?

I know about shudder, but not noticed yet.

mwoo68

10-21-2009, 10:26 AM

How many miles do you guys have on cars to notice this, mine is 09 TRIBECA and not had it yet?

I know about shudder, but not noticed yet.

Soon as I drove off the lot, I informed the dealer about it. Its brand new. I bought 09 at year end Oct. 15

I told them I'll give it a bit more driving to see if its tires or whatever and if it goes away. After researching online and this site, I'm positive I have a shudder/vibration in the speed range I mentioned earlier. You can feel it rumble in the seats but not in the stearing wheel.

It might not be on all cars, so you may be lucky!

Finally today 11-23-09, dealer looked at it and acknowledged there is a bit of vibration at the 80km speed, but it is normal for this type of vehicle. That is crap!!! I told them a cavalier feels smoother than this. I told them I'll monitor it but really I had to go pick up the kids. I wanted to give it to them. Also, I told them the 2nd row seats vibrates, and the answer is its because of the shudder/vibration. WTF?

I'll be going back in a week or so to give it to them. I even printed out the bulletin about the vibration/shudder and 2nd row seats issue, and they told me I got those from the american site and canada is not the same, so until canada issues a bulletin, there is nothing to be done.

Trueblue

12-10-2009, 01:49 AM

Looks like I'll be calling the dealer about this too.....feels like its gonna stall sometimes around the 40klm/h mark.

bsll

12-11-2009, 05:53 AM

Mi problem vibration a 1500 rpm the dealer change de torque converter and the problem finish sorry for my english i am from spain

Good Luck

Trueblue

12-11-2009, 06:04 AM

Mi problem vibration a 1500 rpm the dealer change de torque converter and the problem finish sorry for my english i am from spain

Good Luck

No problem ;)

thanks for the feedback

saintnick

12-15-2009, 07:56 PM

I have this too! Dealer said they could not reproduce. just ran out of warranty- will they fix the tsb after warranty?

mwoo68

12-16-2009, 04:40 AM

I have this too! Dealer said they could not reproduce. just ran out of warranty- will they fix the tsb after warranty?

My issue is still ongoing. As I said, they claim the shudder/vibration is normal for this car. I was shocked. So shocked, I just left without a word. Well, its not over. I've got just under 3 years warranty left!!!

I showed them the TSB about it and the fix suggested. They didn't even bother to to investigate further, just saying, "we don't follow USA TSB", we follow only Canada's.

As I said, its not over. Anybody manage to get a good dealer to really try and solve vibration/shudder issue, please post!

wackojacko

01-18-2010, 12:45 PM

My issue is still ongoing. As I said, they claim the shudder/vibration is normal for this car. I was shocked. So shocked, I just left without a word. Well, its not over. I've got just under 3 years warranty left!!!

I showed them the TSB about it and the fix suggested. They didn't even bother to to investigate further, just saying, "we don't follow USA TSB", we follow only Canada's.

As I said, its not over. Anybody manage to get a good dealer to really try and solve vibration/shudder issue, please post!

Which dealer, I basically got the same response from Mississauga Subaru, without having the TSB in hand.

On a weird note, I put on new winter tires (full set of Firestone Winterforce 17", without TPMS) and the shuttering seems to have gone away. Tires went on Jan 3 and I have not been able to feel it since, and I've tried. I'm thinking it might be brought on by uneven tire wear. I had 16,000 miles on the OE tires and had not rotated them. Dealer said in December that the OE tires were something like 6mm left on the fronts and 6.5mm on the rears. I've read other spots that you can have drive train issues if you only replace say your front tires.

I'm thinking there is still a shuttering issues with my ride but it is increased by the uneven tires (front to back), anybody have any thoughts on this theory?

mwoo68

02-23-2010, 10:28 AM

Have you pursued this any further. I'll be going in again in about a month when I do my oil change and go at it again! Does you car exhibit any rattling in 2nd row or rear gate?

Which dealer, I basically got the same response from Mississauga Subaru, without having the TSB in hand.

On a weird note, I put on new winter tires (full set of Firestone Winterforce 17", without TPMS) and the shuttering seems to have gone away. Tires went on Jan 3 and I have not been able to feel it since, and I've tried. I'm thinking it might be brought on by uneven tire wear. I had 16,000 miles on the OE tires and had not rotated them. Dealer said in December that the OE tires were something like 6mm left on the fronts and 6.5mm on the rears. I've read other spots that you can have drive train issues if you only replace say your front tires.

I'm thinking there is still a shuttering issues with my ride but it is increased by the uneven tires (front to back), anybody have any thoughts on this theory?

wackojacko

02-23-2010, 10:51 AM

Have you pursued this any further. I'll be going in again in about a month when I do my oil change and go at it again! Does you car exhibit any rattling in 2nd row or rear gate?

Have not been back to dealer. Just went on a long drive to Pittsburgh and the vibration was not there. Had 3 guys in the vehicle with me and no shutter. I think the tires might be a contributor to the issue. I'll see in the spring when the OE tires go back on (rotated of course)

I have the rattle. Not sure where, it was not present on the trip to Pitts, but that was because the second row has 450lbs of passenger weight and the back had luggage with the third row folded down. the rattle is there now with no cargo. Think I might have all the rattles including the rear compartment cover. I have a box sitting back there on the cover and the rattle is less. It might be jumping up and down on the hinges (this is the cover over the jack)

mwoo68

02-24-2010, 12:31 PM

Have not been back to dealer. Just went on a long drive to Pittsburgh and the vibration was not there. Had 3 guys in the vehicle with me and no shutter. I think the tires might be a contributor to the issue. I'll see in the spring when the OE tires go back on (rotated of course)

I have the rattle. Not sure where, it was not present on the trip to Pitts, but that was because the second row has 450lbs of passenger weight and the back had luggage with the third row folded down. the rattle is there now with no cargo. Think I might have all the rattles including the rear compartment cover. I have a box sitting back there on the cover and the rattle is less. It might be jumping up and down on the hinges (this is the cover over the jack)

I'm glad for you that your's is not as bad as mine. I have a 1997 Acura 1.6EL and at 80km cruising speed, its smoother than the Tribeca. The tribeca exhibits vibration that is easily felt. Being told that they feel it also and that it is normal for this car! $48K car is normal!?! My car was an early 2009 build, in fact, it was the showroom car that came from Mississauga Subaru. Silver Premium. Not sure how long it was the showroom car, but the nail scratches on the push handle of the trunk storage hatch tells me its been on 'show' for a while...

goodhobbes

03-07-2010, 05:53 PM

I have posted here, somewhere, before about this issue. Problem since new in a 08 Tribeca!
I have had two torque converters replaced. Several other items replaced or looked at to try to address this problem. Probably a dozen visits to dealers in 35,000 km for this problem.
One dealer who just became disinterested and another who bent over backwards to try and address the problem. Sadly, the problem remains, and the last dealer who tried to fix the problem (while keeping the car for about a month, and communicating with Subaru Canada on a regular basis) stated that Subaru Canada advised them that the problem in question was normal and there was no fix!
That dealer also told me that after I took my car in, they had two more Tribecas with a similar complaint!
I am presently dealing personally with Subaru Canada, and hope to have a reply soon.
Based on what I read in this Forum, this is a more widespread problem than
I once believed. I wonder if Subaru is facing a Major Problem!! Bearing in mind that The new Outback is also available with a similar engine and transmission?
Keep on posting! Maybe Subaru will address the issue!

mwoo68

03-07-2010, 06:21 PM

I have had two torque converters replaced. Several other items replaced or looked at to try to address this problem. Probably a dozen visits to dealers in 35,000 km for this problem.

Interesting. I can't even get them to replace the torque converter, only that this shudder/vibration is normal for this car. I printed off the TSB for this issue and it claims the torque converter should address the issue along with maybe a reflash.

Can you re-describe your problem in detail just to be certain it is the same as mine. Mine is most obvious at 80km/hr.

What dealer have you been taking your car to in Canada? I'm very interested in your case since since you have a Canadian Tribeca. Alot of my information I give to my dealer, they quickly reinforce the fact that they do NOT follow Subaru of America TSB's, only Subaru of Canada! While all Tribecas are all made alongside each other in Indiana, I'd think one problem should be same for both borders.

Keep us posted how you make out and what course of action plays out. I get the feeling my dealer hopes I just accept the vibration and live with it and stop being a whiner!

If you are willing to band together at Subaru of Canada, PM me and I'll join your cause. How long have you been dealing with Subaru Canada? And whom is your contact?

kito

04-10-2010, 07:46 PM

HI
I'm from Uruguay- just purchased a 09 Tribeca with 19000km

I felt this vibration problem since the beggining, and searched in the forum, and found the description mentioned here is exactly what I feel - with transmision locked about 1500 rpm it's annoying. Specially at 30-40 km, and at 70-80.
Also when that happens, gears do some silly up and down, like they dont decide what gear to use.

Before seeing this thread I went to the dealer and told be some vibration was normal, but I wan't really able to show them the vibration, as some streets were a bit harsh.
Now that I found it happend to others I'll go back again.
I'll let you know. Wish me luck

tribeca09

04-11-2010, 06:59 AM

I'm not positive this is the same thing you guys are experiencing, but it sounds similar to me.

Last night I noticed that as I'm accelerating (but only if I do it mildly) at about 60 mph (which is 96 kph) up through about 65 mph there is a vibration. The vibration feels like the car is going over those rumble strips on the side of the road used to wake up sleepy drivers -- but without the noise. At first, I was convinced it was the road. However, I was able to duplicate the vibration several times.

Is this torque converter causing this?

kito

04-11-2010, 09:41 AM

I've done some research on the web, and found this same problem described in legacy forums (cars with same gearbox). And also found the same problem related to other brands equipped with the same 5AT gearbox.
Has anyone seen this?
Maybe it's a problem involved with the gearbox and not just Tribecas.

Reading through this forum and others about this problem it seems in some cases problem was solved just by reprogramming the software. Is this right?

mwoo68

05-05-2010, 12:39 PM

Which dealer, I basically got the same response from Mississauga Subaru, without having the TSB in hand.

On a weird note, I put on new winter tires (full set of Firestone Winterforce 17", without TPMS) and the shuttering seems to have gone away. Tires went on Jan 3 and I have not been able to feel it since, and I've tried. I'm thinking it might be brought on by uneven tire wear. I had 16,000 miles on the OE tires and had not rotated them. Dealer said in December that the OE tires were something like 6mm left on the fronts and 6.5mm on the rears. I've read other spots that you can have drive train issues if you only replace say your front tires.

I'm thinking there is still a shuttering issues with my ride but it is increased by the uneven tires (front to back), anybody have any thoughts on this theory?

Finally, service manager finally took it for a drive and noticed the shudder that I was referring to. He claims it is the torque converter but needs to isolate the issue a bit more to make the case to Subaru of Canada even knowing full well it is a well documented issue in the US. This is the first step to getting it resolved now that the service manager seems to be on my side.

mwoo68

05-06-2010, 09:10 AM

According to the Subaru Technical Information System website, http://techinfo.subaru.com it’s the 08 & 09 that list the issue.

Go under the Reference Publications tab at the top and then 2008 or 2009, and Tribeca.

Then click on the Subaru Bulletins > Technical Service Bulletins (http://techinfo.subaru.com/html/ixSearchKwBu.jsp?model_year=2008&vehicle_line=Tribeca&publication_type=16&text_keyword=&keyword=&bulletin=3)

Towards the bottom is 5AT Torque Converter Shudder/Vibration (225.23 kb) 16-74-09

5AT Torque Converter Shudder/Vibration

Service Bulletin #16-74-09
Pages: 2

Bulletin Description: If you encounter a vehicle that has a shudder/vibration which could be felt in 3rd, 4th and 5th gear during slight acceleration, it may be caused by the transmission torque converter during lockup operation. A countermeasure was made to the final machining process of the sliding surface for the lock up clutch to provide more stabilization and eliminate the shudder/vibration.

This is exactly my issues, I thought it had subsided or reduced but it’s back.

Not sure what their solution is, maybe replace torque converter? I find out.

I've posted the TSB that you are referring to in the TSB section.

Trueblue

05-25-2010, 08:38 PM

My vibration/shudder has been fixed with a new torque converter. The Area manager knew of the problem straight away and ordered the part. All done under warranty too. Very happy now!!!

goodhobbes

05-25-2010, 09:35 PM

Glad to hear it. I have had two torque converters replaced without benefit and Subaru refuses to deal with the problem.
Be aware that the problem MAY recur .
Hope it does not for your sake.
:tup:

kito

08-23-2010, 12:19 PM

I took my Tribeca to the dealer 2 months ago for this problem. In fact I had to take it also because all lights relationed to transmission went on suddenly.

They don't know exactly what happened, but also with my earlier claim for the vibration they had instructions from the manufacturer to try first downloading a new software for the auto transmission, before changing the torque converter.

As a result the vibration didn't dissapear at all, but, it became almost unnoticeable. And, sometimes, when it seemd it's about to start to vibrate, the torque converted unlocks.
So, I believe what they've done is to change to software in order that the gearbox avoids the specific conditions in which it vibrated. Clever!!

For the moment, those small vibrations I have now make me wonder that it'll probably be better not to have the gearbox touched again - I'm afraid of the consequences of someone messing with it - vibration is not really a bothering issue now.

The only fact is that sometimes I find the torque converter locks in conditions that it shouldn't lock - sometimes locking and lowering rpms to about 1100-1200.

Trueblue

08-23-2010, 03:58 PM

The problem is defiantly with the torque converter, Im shudder free since posting back in May,

goodhobbes

11-12-2010, 04:24 PM

mwoo68

11-12-2010, 05:11 PM

May be a bit late posting this, but you have the same problem as I do.
If you check my posts, you will see the headaches I have had dealing with Subaru Canada.
My Tech at dealer admits there is a problem.
Service manager says there is a problem, but Subaru won't or can't correct it. He says he has two others like it out here in the Nanaimo, BC. area. He says the only think I can do is keep after Subaru Canada. Two new Torque converters have not worked. Checking antiknock sensors did not prove anything either. Changing to high test fuel was also suggested. There is No fix for the problem and Subaru Canada says what I experience is "normal" ! Funny was not normal in any of the other 20 cars (not Subaru's) I have owned!
My suggestion is to make as many Subaru owners and potential buyers aware of Subaru's incompetence!:tdown::tdown:
All the best.
Goodhobbes:(

I hear'ya LOUD and CLEAR!!! I even have the TSB from Subaru of America acknowledging this shudder, but Subaru Canada won't deal with it. The dealer says they don't follow SOA stuff so we won't look at it.

My thinking is since they are on a roll regarding sales with all their models (excluding the Tribeca), they don't want the Tribeca to get in its way. At any rate, we're just a small group of owners! Heck, the ads here in Ontario don't even show the Tribeca in its lineup of cars.

After four subes, this may be my last for a good little while, not because of the issue, but the blatant poor service from SOC.

goodhobbes

11-12-2010, 05:20 PM

My first and last Subaru!!!:tdown::tdown:
Have written to CBC Marketplace today. Am looking into other forms of action I can take. Eg. write to local papers, BBB. Canadian Driver, etc.
Have written to Canadian Driver already.

Have even considered placing a link to a website which I will develop on the side of the car:
"Thinking of buying a Subaru?...check this website and think again...."

Should be able to TAR all their models with the same brush!!
Subaru is prepared to jeopardize their success at the expense of a few failures?

Extreme, maybe, but I have had it with them! Terrible customer service....Never had such a problem with all the many cars I have owned!

Keep posting!

gags77

12-13-2010, 09:21 PM

Well, I now join the shudder club...Car has been great for about 2 1/2 years. Bought new in Feb 08. Only felt a couple small vibrations during this time. Once on the drive home from Maine, about 1/2 hour after we started out. Going uphill and slightly accelerating. only lasted 1 or 2 minutes. Another time cornering on a city street while accelerating.
I just had the Tribeca in for a level 2 maintenance which includes rotation and balancing about 3 weeks ago. Thanksgiving day headed out to in-laws we had this huge vibration on the highway at 70. My wife and I were unnerved, tho the kids loved it!:lol: Figured it was a botched balance and slowed to 65, tho still felt slightly. Brought back to dealer this past saturday and "balance was off on front right tire. Much better now."
Nope! Still vibrated at 70-75-though not as bad. Dealer is taking it in on thursday to do a complete look over and fully check tires, wheels, tranny. I told them about tsb and torque converter with the tranny lockup. We'll see how it gets handled...If not satisfactory will be trading in for 09 or 10 forester. Gas isn't getting any cheaper anyway, and I don't use 3rd row enough to justify it.;) Love the car, but will not deal with with this vibration/shudder at my usual cruising speed of 70-75 (or at all!) It feels like we have massaging seats-thats the best way to describe it.

goodhobbes

12-14-2010, 03:14 PM

Let us know what developed with your shudder.
Did SOA address it for you?
Is it fixed?
What was done.

I wrote to the CEO Subaru Japan and sent it express post.
Have not heard back. That was about two weeks ago.
Getting ready for my next address to this matter.
My son is a graphic artist and am getting large signs with a lemon and a short note giving account of my experience and a link to a website, where I will provide a more detailed account.
I could just trade the damn thing in, but it is the principle of the thing that irks me. Subaru's total denial of the problem despite their dealer's repeated insistence that there IS a problem!
Keep writing!

gags77

12-15-2010, 06:55 PM

I'll let everyone know what develops. I dropped it off tonite so they could take it to a different location. The service manager told me they had a force balancer down there, and of the open tsa for the torque converter on the 08-09 Tribecas. You can't really feel anything until about 75 mph, then it shutters bad...vibrating seats are not a confident feeling! The weird thing is that it wasn't doing this until after the last service which included a wheel balancing. I figured it was just a bad balance, but even though the shudder was a little less "massaging", it is still there.

gags77

12-31-2010, 06:24 PM

Sorry for a late response, but time has not been a friend to me...Well, the force balance was done and it seems to have gotten rid of the shudder. Much smoother on the highway at my cruising speed of 70-75mph. What I don't understand is what my dealer told me. They said they did a balance (twice), but that their wheel balancer doesn't really work for tires/rims above 16". Why would they offer a balance (or do balances) on vehicles with larger rims if their balancer doesn't fit them? They had to send my car out for the balancing because of the 18" rims, and that was the problem. Didn't do the torque converter, tho they said they were going to. Still notice, once in a while a slight vibration in the steering wheel, but its not something that happens all the time or makes me feel unsafe (like the bad balancing did).

Trueblue

01-11-2011, 01:54 AM

I cant seem to understand why they dont fix the problem for you guys over there? This is a safety issue and I made it clear to the dealer and he agreed.

woodbutcher

03-04-2011, 06:07 PM

According to the Subaru Technical Information System website, http://techinfo.subaru.com it’s the 08 & 09 that list the issue.

Go under the Reference Publications tab at the top and then 2008 or 2009, and Tribeca.

Then click on the Subaru Bulletins > Technical Service Bulletins (http://techinfo.subaru.com/html/ixSearchKwBu.jsp?model_year=2008&vehicle_line=Tribeca&publication_type=16&text_keyword=&keyword=&bulletin=3)

Towards the bottom is 5AT Torque Converter Shudder/Vibration (225.23 kb) 16-74-09

5AT Torque Converter Shudder/Vibration

Service Bulletin #16-74-09
Pages: 2

Bulletin Description: If you encounter a vehicle that has a shudder/vibration which could be felt in 3rd, 4th and 5th gear during slight acceleration, it may be caused by the transmission torque converter during lockup operation. A countermeasure was made to the final machining process of the sliding surface for the lock up clutch to provide more stabilization and eliminate the shudder/vibration.

This is exactly my issues, I thought it had subsided or reduced but it’s back.

Not sure what their solution is, maybe replace torque converter? I find out.

Thanks for the homework, I took advantage of your time and brought a printout of your detail regarding the technical info to my dealer with my 08 and told them I was having the same problem. My Tribeca has 80K on it, long time out of warranty. I was able to convince SOA to participate in paying for the repair. They popped for $1000, half the total cost. I picked it up today,drives like a new vehicle, the part has been upgraded to correct the problem. Thanks again

goodhobbes

03-05-2011, 03:16 AM

had two torque converters replaced without correcting the issue.
I sincerely hope you are more fortunate. Subaru of America seems much more helpful and responsible than the Canadian counterpart. They abandoned me totally. :tdown:

heavychemist

04-04-2011, 11:23 AM

Crap, sounds like I have the same problem. Taking the Tribeca to the dealer on Thursday to see what they say. Bringing the Service Bulletin with me. No way in hell is that sound normal.

goodhobbes

04-04-2011, 11:38 AM

Good luck with your service. Let us know what is found and whether they fix it for you.
Keep posting! Important that we get as many complaints aired as possible on this issue with Tribeca's.

woodbutcher

04-04-2011, 04:56 PM

My trans started shaking shortly after I had a trans service done at the dealer. I don't know if the flush was related to starting the problem, but at around 60K it began, a shudder at low acceleration would start at 30mph and continue until 40, then fade. I had no extended warranty, so the dealers were in no position to help me financially. I went to Subaru US for help. It took a while, buy they finally agreed to pay $1000. My wife talked the dealer into accepting an expired service coupon for another $150 so we payed $850 for the fix. Subaru has done an upgrade on the converter, so they are definately aware of the problem as a deficient original part.

goodhobbes

04-04-2011, 07:22 PM

Glad to see that SOA helped you out when you were in a tough situation.
Our Canadian counterpart has not been so helpful, even while covered by warranty!:(

Trueblue

04-05-2011, 06:24 AM

Hey goodhobbes, going by your posts things haven't changed. How long are you planning of fighting this and still drive the car around in this condition? This must be very hard to come to terms with. Just curious as to when it would be wise to just get rid of it.

goodhobbes

04-05-2011, 09:54 AM

Hi Trueblue!
I have reached that point. I will continue to post and hear what happens with this issue, though. Can't let SOC get off too easily. No more Subarus for me though.
All the best.

Trueblue

04-05-2011, 04:06 PM

Yeah...totally understand. The fact that SOC wont step up to the plate, and you driving around in a lemon.I suppose you have to look at it like selling property, when the market is low you cut your loses and get out. at the end of the day its only a car and not worth the stress.
Hope it works out which ever way you go.

heavychemist

07-22-2011, 09:45 AM

Thought I would update my situation. Turned out that I had a loose heat shield over the catalytic converter. Glad it wasn't related to the transmission. Easy fix, no more vibration.

sb9tango

07-25-2011, 12:58 AM

Thought I would update my situation. Turned out that I had a loose heat shield over the catalytic converter. Glad it wasn't related to the transmission. Easy fix, no more vibration.

I must have exactly the same problem with my '08 Tribeca with 66K miles on the clock. I don't think I have any transmission shift issues. In fact, the tranny upshifts and down shifts silky smooth on D, SPORT, and MANUAL. The shift transition is barely noticable, without any kicking or jerking and I only know that it already shifted to the next gear, higher or lower, with just listening to the engine and feeling for the chage in it's pull. Loved it!

I'm not sure if it's the "shudder" issue that everyone in this thead is experiencing but I would say that what I'm having is more of a "rattle" from underneath the car...and yes, I haven't checked the catalytic converter heat shields yet, but I've already ruled out the chrome exhaust tips by removing both of them (left and right) but the rattle is still there when going an incline or uphill with engine speeds between 1200-1500 RPMs between 10-30 mph.

I'm also suspecting the sheet metal shield around the spare tire carrier and those thin aluminum heat shields for the mufflers on both sides at the rear corner of the car. Aside from the cat coverter heat shields, what else could it be? Has anyone here have had these "rattle" issues?

I am totally new to Subaru and AWD/4WD and I'm also hearing a whinng/humming sound at speeds from 10-30 mph but goes away at higher speeds, which becomes high pitched when accelerating and becomes low pitched when slowing down, then becomes louder when stepping on the brakes and coming to a stop. The sound is pretty much comparable to those part time 4WD or 4X4's especially those with aggressive off-road tires and I am aware that our subaru is AWD. So, is the humming sound that I'm describing is normal on Subaru Symmetrical AWD system? Is this what other have mentioned in this tread where the torque converter is locking up?

Any help and input will be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

sb9tango

08-11-2011, 02:53 PM

I must have exactly the same problem with my '08 Tribeca with 66K miles on the clock. I don't think I have any transmission shift issues. In fact, the tranny upshifts and down shifts silky smooth on D, SPORT, and MANUAL. The shift transition is barely noticable, without any kicking or jerking and I only know that it already shifted to the next gear, higher or lower, with just listening to the engine and feeling for the chage in it's pull. Loved it!

I'm not sure if it's the "shudder" issue that everyone in this thead is experiencing but I would say that what I'm having is more of a "rattle" from underneath the car...and yes, I haven't checked the catalytic converter heat shields yet, but I've already ruled out the chrome exhaust tips by removing both of them (left and right) but the rattle is still there when going an incline or uphill with engine speeds between 1200-1500 RPMs between 10-30 mph.

I'm also suspecting the sheet metal shield around the spare tire carrier and those thin aluminum heat shields for the mufflers on both sides at the rear corner of the car. Aside from the cat coverter heat shields, what else could it be? Has anyone here have had these "rattle" issues?

I am totally new to Subaru and AWD/4WD and I'm also hearing a whinng/humming sound at speeds from 10-30 mph but goes away at higher speeds, which becomes high pitched when accelerating and becomes low pitched when slowing down, then becomes louder when stepping on the brakes and coming to a stop. The sound is pretty much comparable to those part time 4WD or 4X4's especially those with aggressive off-road tires and I am aware that our subaru is AWD. So, is the humming sound that I'm describing is normal on Subaru Symmetrical AWD system? Is this what other have mentioned in this tread where the torque converter is locking up?

Any help and input will be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Bumpitie-bump.....:)

Lio37

09-23-2011, 10:44 AM

I wanted to confirm that the fix for this is the Torque Converter. I just got my 2008 Tribeca back from the dealer and the shutter/vibration does not exist anymore.

They originally changed out the Drive Shaft and it didn't solve the problem. The Service manager then called Subaru of America for authorization to change out the Torque Converter.

The service was under Subaru Warranty. I had 53K miles on the car.

Awhill7

09-25-2011, 09:23 PM

Having my torque convertor changed this week. I just bought a 2008 and the dealership agreed to fix that shudder when I bought the car. Does this shudder cause damage to the transmission? Do I need to tell them about downloading the software for the transmission.

jamesbalfour

09-26-2011, 03:47 AM

Thinks that's just the torque issue. Get it done through dealer's shop. Not a big issue.

h82bslo

11-14-2011, 12:59 PM

we just got ours last week and notice this issue too.
but i notice the noise at around 1500 rpm. didn't really look at the speed.

h82bslo

12-09-2011, 10:47 AM

been driving it and tried to see whats going on but seems more like a buzzing sound

sb9tango

12-09-2011, 11:45 AM

been driving it and tried to see whats going on but seems more like a buzzing sound

Yea it's more of a buzzing sound from under the car, more like coming from the exhaust and I still have that unsolved mystery of the vibrating sound at around approx. 1300 - 1700 RPM as per my post #s 63 and 64, and it has been suggested in post # 62 that, in his case, the cause was a loose cat converter heat shields but I tried inserting shims of all kinds around those thin aluminum sheet metal heat shields but the vibrating/buzzing sound is still intermittently making that annoying noise especially when climbing a slight uphill otherwise the transmission shifts are seamless and the drivetrain is silky smooth.