How to Fix a Subaru Outback Roof Leak

The Subaru Outback is a vehicle that offers a little of something for everyone. It is durable, offers good maneuverability and comes with impressive safety features. Unfortunately, there's no assurance on any vehicle, including the Subaru Outback, that the roof won't develop a leak. Damage to the roof of the car caused by hail or a heavy object falling on top of the car can cause a leak. This damage may not be visible to the naked eye but could a leak could eventually develop. Fixing the leak is a basic project that doesn't require much mechanical expertise.

Things You'll Need

  • Silicone sealant
  • Brush
  • Dustpan
  • Caulk gun
  • Stepladder
  • Roof sealant
  • Stand on a stepladder so that you have easy access to the roof of your Subaru Outback. Inspect the surface of the roof carefully and locate any cracks, pinholes or rough seams that could be causing a leak.

  • Clean off the top of the car with a soft brush and dustpan. Brush the entire surface to remove dust and debris from the roof surface.

  • Insert a tube of silicone sealant into a caulk gun and line it up with the first crack on the roof. Push down firmly on the caulk gun trigger to release a small bead of sealant along the crack. Move the caulk gun along the crack until it is completely covered. Go on to the next crack and repeat the process for any cracks that remain. Wait an hour for the silicone to dry and seal.

  • Spray the surface of the roof with a can of instant roof repair and leak sealer. Work from one corner of the car to the other, covering the surface of the roof with the sealer. Let it dry for one hour. Test the car the next time it rains to make sure it is not leaking.