Today as I came off the expressway there were some bad pot holes I hit one of them and the radio of my 2008 Outback went off.  Seemed like it had to be hitting the pothole that was the cause.  The only thing I have checked so far was the fuse. It was good. I would welcome any ones thoughts on how to proceed trying to figure out where the problem lies.  Thanks 

On another forum I learned this is a common problem caused by a weak solder  connection. My 08 has the same problem.  Radio comes and goes but has been problem-free last 5 months or so. Try pushing on the panel above/around the #3 button. 

Edited February 17, 20188 yr by john in KY

++ John's reply above.

I had intermittent cutout on my 05 and pressing the faceplate in that area seems to rectify.

Apparently from my googling, someone discovered that there is a passive grounding point that develops carbon between the little metal arm and the faceplate. If you decide to explore you will see the area. I will try and find a link.

http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/80-electrical-electronics/23909-08-o-b-radio-hvac-control-lighting-prob-6.html

post 55 shows arced area on faceplate/unit contact area circled in red in attached imageother posts early on speak of weak solder joints but this poor contact beneath the faceplate seems to be my issue since merely tapping on the faceplate can at times rectify the issue.

Edited February 18, 20188 yr by brus brother

Who ever said there isn't life after death. After three days I started up the car and sure enough the radio came back to life.

Who ever said there isn't life after death. After three days I started up the car and sure enough the radio came back to life.

Amen... or Awomen