Ok, I'll be upfront and honest: I HATE buying cars. I hate dealing with sleezy salespeople who surprise you with up-charges, dealer add-ons, and string you along the whole way. I'm so happy to say that my experience at AutoNation Subaru in Carlsbad was the exact opposite of everything I despise about buying a car. They were all so friendly (genuinely friendly), Jake Smylie was awesome to work with, and they were transparent and fair with everything discussed. I traded in my 2021 VW Jetta that just crested her 100,000 mile mark, and I bought a 2026 Subaru Forester. I got an amazing deal, a fair offer on my trade in, and everything was transparent as far as pricing, offers for dealer add-ons, etc. I personally am more knowledgeable about cars, buying cars, and the whole process than most, but I didn't feel like I even needed to be as knowledgeable since they explained everything in layman's terms. My only downside was that it took a long time to get into the financing office for the finalization, but that was not anything on the fault of the dealership or any individual. I can't even say it's a downside on the dealership since I believe the delay was due to the dealership going above and beyond for the individuals who came in before me - which I appreciate! All-in-all, I loved working with Jake, and I love my Subaru! read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Dear AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad Management, I am writing to formally express my disappointment with the sales and service experience I received after purchasing a used vehicle from AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad on Monday, July 27. As part of the purchase agreement, the vehicle required a due bill for a repair to the left side of the front bumper. At the time of purchase, the issue appeared relatively minor--a missing clip and a small section of the bumper that needed to be secured back into place. Because the service department was already closed by the time the purchase paperwork was completed, I took the vehicle home and returned it to the dealership on Wednesday, July 29. After inspecting the vehicle, the service technician determined that the repair would require a collision specialist. I left the vehicle with the dealership expecting to receive an update regarding the repair and an estimated completion date. That communication never came. On Friday, July 31, I called and left a message for my service advisor, Jessie, requesting an update and a return call. I received no response. I called again on Tuesday, August 4, and left another message. Again, no response. Over the course of the repair, I called the dealership approximately eight times and repeatedly left messages asking Jessie to return my call. I did not receive a single return phone call. I want to acknowledge Jeffrey, the service department operator, who did his best to provide whatever information he could during my repeated calls. Each time, he assured me that he would ask Jessie to contact me. Unfortunately, that call never came. Finally, on Tuesday, August 18, I received a text message informing me that the vehicle was ready for pickup. While I was certainly happy to finally receive the vehicle, it had now been approximately three weeks since I purchased it--a vehicle I specifically purchased for my elderly mother. Instead of being able to enjoy and use the vehicle after purchasing it, I spent those weeks repeatedly trying to determine its status. When I arrived to pick it up, Jessie was at lunch, so I was unable to speak with him directly about my experience. That is why I am contacting management now. I understand and appreciate the convenience technology provides, including automated text messages and digital service updates. However, technology is not a substitute for basic customer service and personal communication. The repair itself is not what ultimately shaped my opinion of AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad. Repairs sometimes take longer than expected, particularly when outside specialists are involved. What made this experience unacceptable was the complete lack of communication from my assigned service advisor despite approximately eight attempts to reach him. A brief phone call saying, "We are still waiting on the collision specialist, but I wanted to keep you updated," would have dramatically changed this experience. Instead, I felt ignored after the sale was completed and the dealership already had my money and my vehicle. Unfortunately, the experience has left me with such a negative impression that I cannot recommend AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad to others. I also intend to share an accurate account of my experience through Yelp, Google Reviews, and social media so prospective customers can make an informed decision about where they purchase and service their vehicles. I am sharing this directly with management first because I believe leadership should be aware when a customer experience breaks down this significantly. I am writing this to you with the hope that future customers do not experience the same lack of communication. read more

Should have read reviews before trying to do business with them. The negative reviews are accurate. I am upfront and DO NOT like to fuck around. Stated that to Brandon Furey so neither one of us wasted the others time. Long story short, they don't negotiate, did not do anything to make the transaction better. Even with that, I spent days on my end going back and forth between Subaru and my bank to finalize funding. I got funding in hand and let them know I am ready to sign and take the car once they address a couple of items. Crickets...like others said in their reviews...communication went silent. ALL dealerships play games and non are honest or ethical, no matter what they say. I will not buy the car from them and will ensure other people don't have to experience the same dishonesty I did. read more

4 days and still no follow up or communication from management. Can't say I'm surprised given the experience I already had. Do not go to Subaru Carlsbad for service, you've been warned. read more

I experienced good service in person when I booked an appointment for an oil change in March 2026. However, six months later I received an AI generated text and email informing me of an upcoming appointment for unspecified service, and appointment I did not make. When the AI handed me off to a real person, the real person claimed my service advisor in March made the appointment for me at that time, which I do not recall approving. I strongly recommend against patronizing any business that uses AI to send deceptive appointment reminders. I will not use this business ever again. read more

5/5 Stars!! Ask for Ramsay! I've bought my fair share of vehicles over the years: commuters, classics, and motorcycles. But working with Ramsay at the Subaru dealership was hands-down the best experience I've had. Picture this: My friend just moved to town - born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, where Subarus are more common than sunny days. Naturally, we walked onto a Subaru lot to get her a little slice of home... and somehow drove off in a Honda??? Love at first sight I guess. I'm pretty sure my friend's PNW membership card was instantly revoked and a Douglas fir lost its rings, but Ramsay didn't even blink. No judgment, no pushy pivot to an Outback, and zero aggressive attempts to convert us back to the Cult of All-Wheel Drive. Ramsay radiates such warm, relaxed energy that "high-pressure sales tactics" simply don't exist in his vocabulary. He just brought good vibes, incredible patience, and total transparency. The guy knows his stuff inside and out, regardless of the badge on the grille. If you need a new ride, even if you're looking for a Honda at a Subaru dealership, go see Ramsay. Mahalo nui loa. read more

We came to look at crosstreks as my friend is considering buying one and hasn't test driven them. We were there on a Sunday wandering around the lot. All the cars were open so we got to check them out thoroughly. I haven't had that experience at other dealerships it was nice. We wandered around for at least 30 minutes before anyone even approached us. That was both weird and refreshing. Finally, Jaden came out and spent a lot of time answering questions and letting my friend test drive. He was in full sales mode, but once he realized that my friend was just beginning his search and they didn't have exactly what he wanted, he relaxed. My friend was very happy with the experience and will definitely contact Jayden when he is ready. We learned a lot of valuable information about Subaru's though. I just got a Subaru in June in Northern California and was vetting the dealership for myself since I will need use them in the future. I'm still learning the car and had a ton of questions. Jayden dealt with my barrage of questions patiently, knowledgeably and with humor. I know I'll be dealing with the service department so this review is only for our experience with Jaden and I will update when my car needs service. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - Going as a passenger for a test drive - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Had a great experience with Ricky. Bought a used 2026 Crosstrek with 3000 miles on it. Ricky followed up several times to see if we had any questions after purchase. Jury is still out on the service department, I haven't had to take it in yet. I got close to what I wanted on my trade in. read more

Poor communication and customer service. My leased Subaru has been waiting over 115 days for a windshield replacement, and I still have no clear delivery date. Getting updates requires constant follow-up, and no real solutions have been offered. The crack is halfway across the windshield, presenting a safety hazard. No loaner vehicle has been offered. Dealer claimed the crack was due to a pre-existing chip, despite the crack magically appearing just a few days after I drove it off the lot although nothing ever hit my windshield. Manufacture defect claim to Subaru corporate was denied. Today I heard back from corporate customer service that the windshields are backordered to AUGUST! Why are they selling cars they can't support with repairs? Especially a common item like a windshield. I was told I should have inspected the vehicle more carefully before I drove it off the lot. This is AFTER the salesperson and the service rep inspected the crack and on the lot, just a few days after I drove it off the lot, and agreed it was a defect. This is not the level of service I expected. Seems their parts and service side of the house are not able to support the vehicles going off the lot. If you have any problems with your leased or purchased vehicle, brace yourself for disappointment. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - Windshield Crack - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I brought my crosstrek in for service since the parking brake light and eyesight were off. The service team - Eric, Justin and his manager are great. They were able to resolve the issue in a timely manner. I really appreciate for their help. read more

Classic car dealership shenanigans DAYS worth of bartering. Paperwork took hours. Car wasn't ready on three separate occasions. Car was not clean upon picking up. And car did not have a full tank upon picking up. Robert on the sales staff was easy to deal with and super knowledgeable though. read more

Ricky Sentina (Sales) and Christy Vogal (CFS Director) went above and beyond as soon as I entered the dealership. I was taken on the test drive for the car I was interested in, 2026 Forester Hybrid Touring model. They worked diligently to get my monthly payment where it needed to be with the current Subaru that I was trading in and kept us supplied with status of financing, snacks and water. After signing all the documents, I was given a very thorough explanation of the multimedia system, Eyesight technology. I will say that I was surprised that the Forester Touring Hybrid did not have the Homelink system installed. That was quickly addressed with options to have installed. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - 2026 Forester Hybrid Touring - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I bought a new 2026 Subaru Ascent and traded a 2023 VW Tiguan on 6/29. My sales associate was Yuri Ganzha and I was treated very well. After about two weeks of ownership, Dustin Taylor (Sales Manager) called, emailed and texted me congratulating me on my new vehicle and asked that if there was anything that did not meet my expectations to inform him so he can make it right. There was actually one thing that did not meet my expectation and it happened after the fact and it was about my trade in. Dustin did not take long and called me and made it right. I really appreciated the gesture and I know for a fact that this dealership is serious about 100% customer satisfaction. Thank you very much Dustin and I really do appreciate that you made things right. I highly recommend Autonation Subaru Carlsbad. read more

I used to like this Subaru. But my last "routine" service showed about 12,000 dollars in repairs. And then a future booked appointment I never asked or scheduled for. Another facility could not find the problem. I would get a second opinion on repairs before agreeing to repairs. I liked my Subaru but I hesitate to get repairs at this place now. read more

Buyer Beware We purchased our Subaru from this dealership a few months ago, and while everything seemed fine at first, the experience quickly went downhill once the sale was finalized. Like many dealerships, they are friendly and attentive until they have your money -- after that, the customer service disappears. Our salesman, Jayden, was great during the purchase, but afterward it became nothing but empty promises and runaround. At the time of sale, we were told the vehicle didn't have a spare key but that they would provide one. Weeks went by with no follow-up. Every time we called, we were told to "just wait" because someone was supposedly bringing a key in. Weeks turned into months, and when we pressed for answers, Jayden claimed management was involved and that the manager, Dustin, would call us. That call never came. It has now been over two and a half months and we still have no spare key, no accountability, and no resolution. Instead, we've been strung along with vague excuses and no real effort to make things right. We love our Subaru, but this dealership has been nothing short of unprofessional and dishonest. If you don't want to be ignored, misled, and left without what you were promised, I strongly suggest taking your business elsewhere. read more

Recently bought a Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness from the team at AutoNation Carlsbad and was beyond impressed with their ability to make sure I was 100% satisfied with my purchase! They made me feel comfortable each step of the way and I would recommend anyone buying a new Subaru to visit their showroom. Want to single out Christy, Fabio and Sean for their ability to make this purchase as seamless and as smooth as possible. I look forward to having their team service my car in the future and when it's time for a new Subaru I'll definitely be back! 10 out of 10 experience! read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I just bought a used Jeep Wagoneer from Subaru AutoNation Carlsbad, and from start to finish the experience was incredible. I actually ended up here because I had gone to other dealerships the week before, and every time I showed up in person the dealer added $5,000 on top of the price that was advertised online. At Subaru AutoNation, the price I saw online was the price I paid in person -- which sadly is a big deal nowadays. I found the car online because Larry (who is absolutely amazing) posted it on Facebook Marketplace. I reached out, set up a time, and Larry kept me updated every single day before my appointment. He sent me multiple photos and videos, gave me the out-the-door price, and made the whole process easy. When I arrived, the car was cleaned and freshened up, the tire tread had been checked, and all details were already confirmed. Because of that, I was in and out in under 2 hours -- and that's including my test drive and plenty of conversation (I'm a talker, haha). Larry is one of the nicest people I've met, and if you're going to Subaru AutoNation, you've got to reach out to him. I thought it couldn't get any better until I met Garrett, the sales manager who handled my paperwork and warranties. Garrett was extremely thorough, kind, and professional -- he walked me through everything step by step and made the final documentation smooth and simple. Plus, small detail, but he carried himself well, dressed sharp, and yes, even smelled good. One major concern I had was that the dealer warranty on the car was expiring in 1,300 miles. Garrett walked me through AutoNation's extended warranty options, and I ended up with platinum coverage -- 6 more years and up to 110,000 miles. That gave me tremendous peace of mind. If you don't know what platinum coverage is, I'd highly recommend looking into it before you buy. The extra touches really mattered too: they brought water and snacks for me and my mom, celebrated the purchase with us, and even surprised me with a bow on the car when I walked out after signing. At the very end, Larry came back with a keychain for me to remember the experience by -- such a small gesture, but it meant a lot and was the cherry on top. Overall, the dealership was spotless, the process was smooth, and I left feeling cared for and valued, not just "sold to." Honestly, I wish I could buy all my cars here. Huge thanks to Larry and Garrett for making this such a memorable experience. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - Larry (on the left) and Garett (on the right) made my car purchasing experience perfect! - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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I bought a Prius 2012 (163,000 miles) and finance ($13,000+) and just in 2months it started shaking and I thought it was the spark plugs, ended up being the engine. I called and the manager of the this Carlsbad Subaru said because I didn't have insurance purchase he couldn't help me. Good luck he said. With that I will NEVER NEVER buy or recommend this shady dealership. The word of a customer goes a long ways. So people please don't buy from here, they sale shady and don't have morals. read more

I've spent weeks researching cars, pricing and financing before contacting AutoNation Subaru. I reached out through their online portal and had a fine back-and-forth going with one of their salespeople. I also made it very clear I did not want to be contacted by phone since it was a busy work week and email was easiest. The salesperson quoted us roughly $35K on the car we wanted. Then Jamie Weeks, the General Sales Manager, called me out of nowhere. He never identified himself by full name or title, just said he was "Jamie from Subaru." When I told him we were already being helped and that I had specifically asked not to be called, he said "OK bye" and hung up. It was such a strange interaction that I emailed our salesperson just to figure out who had called me. Jamie then emailed me a "friends and family" quote of $36,000 which was actually more than what the salesperson had already quoted that same morning. When I pointed out the discrepancy and said we had better offers closer to home, instead of giving me their best price he asked me to reveal competing quotes and told me nobody in the country would give me better than 10% off MSRP. It felt aggressive and unnecessary. I told them it was no big deal and we would cancel our Sunday appointment and go elsewhere. Jamie's response was to tell me his offer was off the table after I had already declined it which was so childish it was actually funny. He then claimed his quote was actually lower than I listed, but conveniently pulled the link so I couldn't verify it while also removing his offer. Again so laughable. After reading through the other reviews here it seems like this is pretty standard for this place. So I'm very excited that I will be purchasing a new Subaru this weekend and will absolutely not be doing it here. read more

I am extremely disappointed with the treatment we received from AutoNation Carlsbad Subaru. I spoke directly with a salesperson named Nathan regarding a 2019 Mercedes CLA 250 they had listed. From the beginning, Nathan was aware that the vehicle was for my daughter and that I was helping her make a responsible and informed decision since she is not experienced with purchasing a car. I clearly explained to Nathan that we live in Los Angeles and would be driving nearly two hours to Carlsbad, so we needed to confirm availability and financing before making the trip. Nathan specifically suggested that my daughter submit a credit application to determine whether it would be "worth the travel," which we did immediately based on Nathan's recommendation. After following up with Nathan, I received a brief text from him stating that my daughter's credit was too low for that specific vehicle and that he could not help us -- with no explanation, no details, and no attempt by Nathan to offer alternatives. When I called Nathan multiple times to discuss options or seek clarification, my calls were ignored and my messages went unanswered. It became very clear to me that once the situation was no longer convenient for Nathan, he chose to ignore our efforts instead of handling the matter professionally. Nathan encouraged us to submit a credit application, yet when it required an honest and transparent conversation, he avoided communication altogether. What I cannot accept is the level of disrespect shown to both me and my daughter. This is my daughter we are talking about. As any parent would, I am helping guide and protect her through important financial decisions. I will not tolerate behavior that feels misleading or dismissive toward her. If financing was not possible, Nathan should have explained that clearly and professionally -- not handled it with silence and avoidance. I am not the type of person who normally writes reviews, but I feel compelled to share this experience because of how Nathan handled the situation. If you are in the market to buy a vehicle, please take caution and, if possible, consider avoiding this dealership. I would hate to see another honest person or family experience the same lack of professionalism and respect that we did. Families deserve honesty, communication, and accountability. Unfortunately, that is not what we received from Nathan or this dealership. read more

These guys ruined my Saturday by taking INSANELY long to sell a girl a car. "Almost done" apparently means another two hours. Literally so annoying. read more

Amazing is not enough! I went there today Saturday, and I was treated like a VIP! Jake was accommodating and knowledgeable, guided me over right product. I felt at ease and comfortable, his manager kept coming to make sure that I was well taken care of, I would most definitely recommend this place, I am extremely satisfied. Thank you AutoNation and above all, THANK YOU Jake. read more

Markus in the service advisor role is quite possibly the most inept person I've ever dealt with in my life. also their management likes to play nice and pretend they are getting things done but end up leaving at 3pm and telling you they'll figure it out tomorrow. my car has been there for 3 days now and nothing has been accomplished. I was sent a video from the technician saying my water pump is good and at the same time Markus recommended we replace the same water pump for 800$, also I purposely replaced the radiator cap last week to save money, after an "inspection" they recommended we replace the 7 day old radiator cap for 95$ which means they not even inspect the car. they just generate automated lists of things suggested at the mileage and age of the vehicle. total bait and switch, dishonesty, and incompetence. this is my third Subaru I have owned and all I have to say is Bob Baker would have never dropped the ball like this. auto nation is a disgrace. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - Spamming me with texts all day and not getting anything done - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

This review is for the sales department at Subaru: We bought a Forester here last fall. It was hands down the least stressful and most pleasant car buying experience our family has ever had. Jill was our salesperson, and she was low pressure and helpful, making the whole process efficient and easy. Jaime the manager was also friendly and helpful. We were able to get a competitive price and there wasn't any pressure to buy add-ons. From the first conversation regarding what we were looking for to the test drive to the paperwork, this was the quickest and easiest car purchase. read more

So I think the last time I was here this place was Bob Baker Subaru? It had been a long while. I usually head down to SD to have my car serviced but being short in time I came here. I thought service would be quicker with an appointment. Heck, I even got there a bit early. I had no idea who the advisor was when I was greeted. Told it was one person but the. Someone entirely different came out. That should have been my warning. Anyway, I checked in, proceeded to the lounge where I would spend the next 2 1/2 hours!!!! Yep, 2 1/2 hours WITH an appointment. After 2 hours, the advisor tried to upsell me more service.. yeah yeah cabin filters etc, but then the video I was sent said that my axle seal was "leaking badly" but never actually pointed out where the leak was. I had my usual mechanic take a look at the video and he disagreed with this technician. No evidence of a leak whatsoever. A bit dirty, yes, but no leak. My car is 2012 not 2022. It's older, not as clean as before. Anyway, after squaring away that I only wanted the oil change, I was told it would be another 20-30 minutes for the car wash. This is just NOT stellar service. I deeply regretting not making he drive to SD at that point. Well, now that I know they don't honor oil change appointments... I'm gonna try my luck elsewhere. On the plus side... lounge had tea, coffee, granola bars, oatmeal, cookies, dairy creamer, and bottled water. That was nice. Also some seating. Overall? Not impressed with the service though. read more

Customer service is terrible! The parts department never answers the phone and even gives you the wrong part numbers. Called again today took 3 separate tries just to get an answer then they said they can't look up a part because their system is down. I love my Subaru, but hate the customer service. read more

*Update*. This dealership keeps getting worse. Joua is the service center representative that has no idea what is going on in her center. She tried to tell me that the brake assembly that is cutting into the rim of our car is OK. Her technician said there is nothing wrong and the problem is probably a failing exhaust manifold. I even sent them pictures of the problem, but they still tried to tell us it is something else. I will not bring this car back to them. They would have probably lied and charged me for other work if I brought it back. To top things off, she threatened to hang up on me because I told her that the problem is the brakes not the exhaust. HORRIBLE AT CUSTOMER SERVICE HERE! Also the General Manager Nathan will not do anything. I've called him multiple times and left messages to return my call. He never has called. Not even once. IF YOU WANT TO BE LEFT IN A DITCH. THIS IS THE DEALERSHIP FOR YOU! Horrible service. I have a recall on brakes and took my car in to their shop. It's been almost four months and they have not fixed the problem. It is a recall on all models of the Ascent cars. I keep calling to schedule the repair and no one calls me back. The safety of our family relies on brakes and the problem is continuing to get worse. I would not recommend dealing with this dealership. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - The new brake assembly came lose and is grinding into the rims. DO NOT SHOP AT CARLSBAD AUTONATION. - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I bought a 2016 Subaru Forester with 82,895 miles in February 2026, in May 3 months later the car broke down and needs a new engine. The dealership proved a 90 day warranty, but since the car broke down 2 weeks after the 90 days the dealership wont provide any help. I would recommend staying away from buying used cars from this dealership! read more

Luis is awesome! He was very helpful and got us in touch with everyone here we need to know. Manny from the maintenance department was also very helpful and said we could call him personally anytime if we have questions about the car. This dealership has a positive atmosphere and no one here is pushy or tries to sell any add ons or warranties you don't need. We were just given a list of options and asked if any of them seem like something we would benefit from. Oh and the price was right! No other dealership within 50 miles could beat their prices! We did research online and called multiple locations and this was by far the best price! Also, there are a lot of options to choose from here including colors and trims. And they give you a good deal on any of the add ons if you choose to get any. I didn't just because I wanted to hurry up and buy the car, but maybe next time I'll look into that more. Great experience, great price! read more

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Shout Out to Tech Filip & Subaru of America Transmission was acting up on our 2016 Forester, we were holding our breath as it could have potentially been covered under the Mfg extended Warranty or risk a potential $3-$8,000 repair. Subaru of America stepped up covered it, unlike Hyundai of America when our son's car had a complete engine fail. Hyundai didn't honor their extended MFG warranty and every local Hyundai dealer laughed in our face and said Tough, not our problem. Back to Filip Filip Thank You Thank You Thank You. I will in all my travels and meetings with everyone and let them know how Honest you are How Professional you are Blessings to you and the rest of your crew . Customer for Life Mike Sirota read more

Subaru Carlsbad is an excellent dealership and I highly recommend them. Even though I traveled a distance to use their services, I would do it again. Absolutely the best service ever!!! read more

This was a bit of a spontaneous decision, as I wasn't originally considering Subaru. However, after researching the best value electric SUVs in terms of price and quality, the Subaru Solterra kept coming up, so I decided to stop by. I met Kevin at the dealership, and he was polite, professional, and--refreshingly--not pushy like many car salespeople are. He actually suggested a better option by leasing the vehicle for 3 years, which I appreciated. After test-driving the Solterra (and coming from 5 years of driving a Tesla), I was genuinely impressed. The car is beautiful inside and out, very comfortable, quiet, and even faster than my Tesla. It's loaded with features--I especially like the hands-free tailgate sensor. The pricing also seemed attractive, with the $7,500 incentive plus an additional $2,000 lease discount. That said, the technology is a weak point. Both the in-car software and the phone app are not very intuitive and feel slow and outdated. Compared to Tesla, it's a noticeable step down. For example, the app doesn't clearly show charging progress. Subaru really needs to improve this and I'm sure they will update the software... another issue is that this car is rated to get 288 miles of range but instead is being charging at only 256 at 100% so that 30 miles off plus considering is suggested to charge 80% that makes the range only 205 miles... still ok for my commute but I rather have the milage range they advertise... After deciding to lease it, I change my mind because I realized I drive much more then the leasing limits and also if I decide to buy it after the lease ends the residual cost is a bit too high... So after talking to the GM of Sales. Mr. Jami, he was super understanding and kind to change the transaction to a purchase that it is more fitting for me. We're considering to buy another Subaru EV the recently released Uncharted... So I'm super appreciative of him and everyone at Subaru Carlsbad for being professional, understanding and accommodating, so in the spirit of super I give them all 5 starts because 6 is not available and of course a Super Thank you! read more

I had been taking my car here for routine oil changes, and it was always a frustrating experience. Even when they said my car was ready, I'd end up waiting another 30+ minutes for them to bring it around. Then came the real issue. Subaru sent me an extended warranty for my brakes due to known problems with some Ascents. My car had this exact issue. The dealership said they'd take care of it, but the parts were on backorder. I followed up five times over the next five months before they finally got the part in. I dropped my car off on a Monday. By Friday, the brake assembly had popped out and scraped my rim. I called and spoke to Joella, the Service Manager, who immediately dismissed the issue, claiming it wasn't possible because "their system" would've caught it. We sent her a photo and explained it sounded like a jackhammer. She later claimed it was the exhaust manifold--which isn't even near the brakes or tire. It was clear she lacked a basic understanding of car mechanics. I then took my vehicle to Orange Coast Subaru, and they were amazing. They told me to bring it in immediately, gave me a loaner, and handled everything with care and professionalism. I escalated the issue to Subaru of America, and after investigating, they confirmed it was a workmanship issue caused by this dealership. Subaru requested both dealerships work together to resolve it. Meanwhile, Nathan--the General Manager--never returned a single phone call from us or Orange Coast Subaru. Subaru of America couldn't even reach him. After two weeks of silence, we physically went to the dealership--twice--just to get him to talk to us. When we finally met with him, he tried to gaslight my husband by blaming the other dealership and claiming there was "a miscommunication." Luckily, my husband is knowledgeable about cars and called him out. Only then did Nathan finally admit fault and agreed to pay the other dealership to fix our car. Bottom line: Be very careful with this place. I should've trusted my gut and stopped going, but it was the closest dealership. Don't make the same mistake. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - They forgot to put the brake clip and the entire brake assembly popped. They were awful to deal with to remedy faulty workmanship. - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

My experienced at this dealership yesterday Saturday, January 17, 2026, at approximately 2:15 p.m was less than satisfactory. I had been working for a day and a half with Ricky Sentina via text message and email on a specific vehicle. The numbers were already agreed upon, I was preapproved, and I was prepared to complete the purchase. I had informed Ricky that I planned to come in today, but that I was also trying to make it in Saturday if possible. When I arrived Saturday afternoon after texting Ricky I was coming to inspect the vehicle and finalize the purchase, I was told that another party was coming to see the car and that I would essentially need to wait, despite the fact that I was present, ready, and willing to buy. Ricky was unavailable to assist me, and I was instead helped by Nathan Stephens who made a genuine effort to resolve the situation. However, the issue itself appeared to be beyond his authority. As a retired combat veteran, integrity and follow-through matter greatly to me. From my perspective, this situation reflects a breakdown in communication and commitment that is not conducive to good sales practices. I felt sidelined despite having already invested time and effort into the deal and having made my intent to purchase clear. Additionally, this experience affected more than just a single sale. I had intended not only to purchase that vehicle, but also to buy a second car for my wife. Unfortunately, this situation changed that outcome. I felt it is important to make people aware of this, as I do not believe this reflects well on your dealership's process or customer experience. read more

This dealership is the reason why car dealerships get the "used car salesman " bad reference. There couldn't be a worse place to buy a car, new or otherwise. Bait and switch city. Read other reviews. Stay away. read more

Last minute call for service but they got me right in. Victoria was patient and thourgh in her explanation and responding to my many questions. My car was done sooner than expected, willing to return, read more

The car IS BEAUTIFUL! I'll give them that. 126 point inspection and promise that the car was good over the phone, just to find out after a 2 hours drive one way and a days worth of lost wages that the timing cover is leaking oil and I need to take it or leave it. This should've been caught BEFORE they convinced me to drive out. Not deception, but definitely negligence and at the customer's expense. I don't know many people willing to just throw away $500 and that's about what the wasted day costs us. Not to mention the reps that I felt were treating me dismissively. Thank you Terrance, you deserve 5 stars for your effort, George was pleasant and a gentleman. Respectable. If you by here INSIST on a visual inspection of mechanical parts before driving out. Then hope they honor the warranty when something goes wrong. 2 stars for now considering how pretty the car is and Terrance's efforts. I'll come back and edit this after 90 days if the leak survives the warranty....UPDATE 12/11/25: Timing cover leak still there, but hasn't grown, but on the drive home we noticed the vehicle loses traction when accelerating from a stop. The passenger side front wheel seems to skip. Got a post purchase inspection from an independent shop and was told i need a new axle and lower control arms. Been running in circles trying to get it handled under warranty. No progress so far. Car was beautiful, but has problems within the first 30 days and they don't want to fix it. The transmission is skipping at low speeds and the control arm bushings are tearing. They responded to my poor review asking me to reach out to the GM, but the number provided goes to an automated line that doesn't direct to the GM at all! They got the money they wanted and now they're hiding from honoring the warranty. DO NOT TRUST THEM! read more

All in all, I found them to be late, incommunicative, shady, with seemingly poor attention to detail. Based off the positive reviews online, I drove up from San Diego proper to have my 2019 Subaru Outback 3.6r serviced for its routine 90k mile service. Major services prior had been performed by Carter Subaru in Seattle. Sadly, the reviews here very much do not match my experience yesterday. - Two hours past quoted 4 hour service time, I received my first communication from Autonation Subaru Carlsbad: a text from the dealership asking me to approve "recommended" additional services over twice the original service cost, with no rationale or description of the status of the part to be replaced. - Twenty minutes after the service advisor texted me for the first time. The only correspondence was that my car would be ready in 25-30 minutes. - When I arrived to pick up my car, I was just told a total to pay and shown the credit card machine, and had to ask to be shown an invoice for the work done and the summary of the technician's evaluation of the car. - Perhaps that approach isn't all that surprising given, that in the invoice, there was a AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad Service "special additive" as a part of the oil change that I was charged for at a cost approaching the oil service itself. Lol. - Also in the invoice was a charge for an oil gasket, which I can only assume is the crush washer for the plug - my car has a fumuto valve and there's absolutely no need to even remove the valve let alone replace the "gasket". - Recommendations to replace "overdue" parts on the car weren't based on the car's service history, but rather the history with the car at that dealership; but my service advisor only shared that detail when I asked directly about "whose records, specifically?" - They lost the removable locking mechanism on my fumoto valve (now lost to me), and didn't replace one of the pins on the plastic underbody cover (see picture). I'd originally had two stars for my review, assuming the technicians did good work; but that's solidly lazy. - it's been a few days now, and I've noticed that they refilled my windshield wipe fluid with... water. ugh. Definitely not headed back there again. read more

AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad - Subaru Carlsbad (Autonation) skipping on reinstalling the clips after failing to reinstall my valve lock - Car Buyers Near Me - Carlsbad, California

This is my fourth time buying a Subaru here in Carlsbad, plenty of selection and friendly staff. Ask for Fabio S. in sales he is a great salesman. read more

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Oh man. I am a life long Subaru fan, but this dealership will make probably this Subaru my last. These guys communicate very poorly - even if in you're IN the building and really come across as crooks. I have heard this from other Subaru owners. Let me share the most recent experience. Brought my car in for an oil change. They told my husband the battery was about dead. My husband asked them to look at the battery and the purchase date - since we bought it from them. Battery was purchased in January of this year. They said they could check the battery warranty but it would take 2 more hours and we'd have to come back. THAT'S INSANE. This is one example of the of the questionable things going on there. 1 Franchisee is ruining the brand for me. If you buy Subaru, don't use these guys for service or purchasing. I don't think they can be trusted. read more