Subaru Outback problems
The Subaru Outback is an automotive nameplate used by the Japanese automaker Subaru for two different SUV-themed vehicles: a Legacy-derived crossover station wagon, the Outback (1994–present, also sold as Legacy Outback (Japanese: スバル・レガシィアウトバック, Hepburn: Subaru Regashi Autobakku) in some markets), and an Impreza-derived off-road themed hatchback, the Outback Sport (1994–2011).
Most versions of the Outback wagon and Outback Sport have had all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
History
The original Outback station wagon was derived from the wagon variant of the second-generation Subaru Legacy. The first-generation Legacy, which made its debut in 1989, did not receive the cosmetic and suspension modifications to create an Outback version, although Subaru offered an Outdoor option package for the 1994 model year Legacy L all-wheel drive model, which added a compressed air strut height adjustable suspension, a luggage rack, a skidplate, and mud flaps.
Earlier, a raised-roof "Touring Wagon" variant had been offered on the preceding Subaru Leone for the 1988 and 1989 model years. Subaru also sold a raised-roof variant (chassis code BF) of the first-generation Legacy wagon outside the United States. North American Legacy wagons were only offered as the flat-roof variant (chassis code BJ) until a special "GT" model was marketed for the 1994 model year.
The second-generation Legacy wagon became the first generation of the Outback crossover series, called the "Legacy Grand Wagon" in Japan in 1995, and the "Legacy Outback" in most other markets. Compared to the existing Legacy wagon, the "Outback" variant added partial protective plastic side body cladding for off-road conditions, used a raised roof, and would later raise the suspension to provide additional ground clearance. It was introduced at the 1994 New York Auto Show. Aside from other small differences in trim, the Outback shares almost all of its components with the Legacy donor model.
When launched in Australia in 1996, the name "Legacy Outback" was shortened to "Outback", followed in other markets afterwards. In the United States, Subaru also retailed the Legacy SUS sedan between the 1997 and 2007 model years, with similar modifications to distinguish it from the equivalent Legacy model sedan. The Impreza Outback Sport was introduced at the 1996 New York Auto Show, but for the 1997 model year, the donor model names were dropped, and the cars were known as the "Outback" and "Outback Sport".
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Subaru Outback model years
Common Subaru Outback problems
Common Problems with Subaru Outback Cars:
- Oil Leaks and Oil Consumption: Oil leaks are a common problem in Subaru Outbacks, particularly in the 2013 model, which may suffer from a defective piston. Older models, such as those from 2000-2003, may also experience oil leaks due to camshaft and crankshaft seal failures. In some cases, these issues may require an expensive engine rebuild.
- Cooling System Failure: Many Subaru Outbacks, particularly those released between 2000 and 2018, may experience cooling system failure. This issue often starts with minor problems like a broken thermostat, radiator issues, or coolant leaks, which can lead to more severe damage, such as head gasket failure. Subaru has extended the warranty for this issue, which typically occurs at the 100,000-mile mark.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems have affected various model years of the Subaru Outback, with the 2002 and 2004 models being particularly prone to issues like clutch damage and high-pitched noises. These problems can lead to more severe issues, such as transmission slippage, which can be dangerous on the road.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues are the worst problem category for the Subaru Outback, with the 2013 model year being the worst due to higher repair costs and more problems at lower mileage.
- AC System Issues: Drivers have reported problems with the AC system in the Subaru Outback, with some experiencing intense shuddering during acceleration.
- Weak Windshields: Subaru Outback windshields are prone to cracking, particularly in the 2013 model year, which was part of a recall due to a defective piston ring that caused oil to leak or burn, potentially leading to engine failure.
- Vibration During Acceleration: Approximately 280+ people have reported an intense shudder during acceleration in the Subaru Outback.
- Dead Battery: The most-reported problem for the Subaru Outback is the dead battery issue in the 2017 model year.
While the Subaru Outback has faced various issues in the past, newer models, such as those released after 2018, have seen improvements in reliability and durability, particularly in the CVT transmission.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Outback?
A list of some of the most common issues Outback owners have to deal with.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires. ...
- Legacy and Outback Headlights Burn Out. ...
- Melting Dashboards. ...
- Subaru EyeSight Problems. ...
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Excessive Oil Consumption. ...
- Rust and Corrosion Problems. ...
- Leaky Head Gaskets.
What year is bad for Subaru Outback?
Quick Answer: Avoid Subaru Outback Year Models 2013 and 2014. When searching for the most dependable Subaru Outback, it's vital to consider the worst.
Is a Subaru Outback a reliable car?
Q: How reliable is the Subaru Outback? A: The Subaru Outback is considered one of the more reliable vehicles in its class and price range. With proper maintenance, typical users can expect 16-20 years of use before significant repairs or breakdowns are needed.
What are common Subaru Outback starting problems?
The most common reasons a Subaru Outback won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Outback years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Outback cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Outback model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Outback model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Outback years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Outback car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Outback , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Outback vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Outback model years
A total of 365 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Outback model years
There were a total of 76 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Outback model years
There were a total of 238 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Outback model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 9068 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Outback . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Outback vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-21
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC0K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Infotainment unit failed. Battery died and was replaced with a larger capacity battery. Shortly after, the infotainment head unit became inoperable with ghosting of buttons. Then, the car would not hold a charge again and a bypass box for the digital communication center is being installed today under a recall. The ghosting/inoperable infotainment center remains non-functional and is apparently a separate issue? It randomly beeps and selects buttons, which is distracting. Unit has to be shut off to avoid this.
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- VIN: 4S4BSANC4K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery goes dead after not using car for 4 days. Subaru said the battery that came with the car was not strong enough. There was a lawsuit, but i missed the date to buy a new battery. I bought a strong battery, but problem happed again. Based on many forum messages, there is a parasitic battery drain while car is off. Problem is tied to Starlink Fuse. Also saw a new lawsuit on the fact that Starlink is trying to connect to 3G network, which no longer exists. Subaru is not fixing this problem. Google Subaru 2019 Starlink battery, it is all over the place.
Subaru Outback 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- VIN: 4S4BTGPD9N3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Have second deep crack with light rock impact in less than one year
Subaru Outback 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-04
- VIN: 4S4BTGLD5N3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield has a crack. There is no external force, neither accident happened
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC7K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DCM battery drain and bad head unit display. The class action law suit does not cover the fix for the battery drain problem. Just a new battery. My is the battery continues to drain. I cannot afford to replace the problem DCM. I had to pull that fuse as a fix. I now do not have fro t speakers or Bluetooth. My CarPlay maps no longer tell me where I need to turn. Causing me to looks at the display more frequently. This is not good in busy areas. The other issue is with the head unit. When it gets warm and humid, the display doesn’t work. It clicks all over causing issues with CarPlay, Bluetooth and the radio. This is due to moisture getting in the display. Again causing problems and distractions. This will cause accidents if it hasn’t already. There are a lot of complaints out there for this as well as the DCM battery drain.
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC6K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Head unit delaminating after Data Control Module repair in 2023. Head unit is entirely inoperable and poses a safety risk to driver by turning radio on and off, switching stations, raising and lowering volume level, and affecting the eyesight periodically. Head unit can be turned off after multiple attempts, however powers back up on its own continuing the previously mentioned issues.
Subaru Outback 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 4S4BSBJC2F3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The horn stopped working on my vehicle. This puts my safety and other driver's safety at risk since I can not alert them if they are coming into my lane. I contacted Subaru Customer Advocacy but they are not willing to fix this problem. I checked the online forums and this seems to be a common problem.
Subaru Outback 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 4S4BRBGC0C3
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that his vehicle was consistently burning out head light bulbs. The contact stated that in a 3 year period he had replaced the both the driver's side and the passenger side bulbs 7 times, and following one failure he had replaced the passenger side housing. The contact stated that the bulb in the new housing had blown out. The contact stated that he had also blown a headlight while driving at night at an undisclosed speed. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic was diagnosed and it was determined that the wiring and electrical system was in working order. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 4S4BSENCSK3
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Subaru Outback 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 4S4BTGUD5R3
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after the purchase of the vehicle, the dealer informed the contact to schedule an appointment to install the trailer hitch harness. The contact was informed by the dealer that the vehicle could tow a capacity of 3,500 lbs. The contact wanted to attach a camper to the trailer hitch. The contact was then informed by the dealer when the dealer attempted to install the hitch harness that the vehicle did not have any trailer brakes to which the tow harness could not be installed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the dealer would not install the trailer brakes and referred the contact to an independent mechanic for further assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 3,395.
Subaru Outback 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 4S4BTGPD7N3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: DEFECTIVE WINDSHIELDS: COSTLY REPAIR: I purchased this car when it was 9 months old with 7800 miles on it. I now have 30, 080 miles. and I have had to replace the windshield 3 times. I also had one a chip repaired. This means I have replaced the windshield every 7427. miles. Once the crack has started the lane sensing and brake stopping programs are halted. This is a serious safety issue. This is BEYOND RIDICULOUS for a NEW MODEL car. There much be something wrong with the making of these windshields, or the material used to make these windshields. This is a costly repair, being that the windshield needs re-calibrating each time. It's been around $2500.00 each time. The Subaru Dealer I purchased the car from has been made aware, but they have no solutions, no discounts, or no other options. Other than empathy, and tell me many others are having the same problems.
Subaru Outback 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 4S4BTGPDXP3
- Components: POWER TRAIN,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When coming to a stop at a stop sign, the car jerks and the engine appears to stall. I have brought it to 2 dealerships and both have said that it is "normal". I have had dozens of cars and none have ever performed in this manner. The adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking frequently brakes for no reason or does not recognize cars in front of me. It regularly misses large objects directly in front of the car. The system also has a lot of failures and turns itself off randomly for unknown reasons. (again, "working as designed")
Subaru Outback 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 4S4BSATCXH3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery drain kept on happening. The nth time after buying 2 batteries and getting battery recharge 2x, Subaru sent me a letter of notice of possible problems with car keeps on finding radio or gps signal thus drains the battery. Brought car to Subaru then they changed the signal unit and gave me a new battery as well.
Subaru Outback 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 4S4BSANC8J3
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The infotainment screen has delaminated rendering it unusable and will intermittantly interrupt the backup camera while moving. This is the second screen already with this issue in my vehicle
Subaru Outback 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 4S4BTAAC7M3
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Thermo control valve failure. Would not cover it
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Outback
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 199 recalls for different components of the Subaru Outback.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
Latest negative Subaru Outback car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Outback car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
As a direct sales businesswoman with a traveling boutique, I was initially concerned about the cargo room when transitioning from my 2013 Pilot EXL to the Outback. However, I have not encountered any issues with the decreased area so far. The controls in the Outback are far superior to those in the Pilot, and the Bluetooth system is much clearer, according to my husband. The seats in the Outback are wider than those in the Pilot, and my tall husband has ample room. The suspension in the Outback is excellent, providing a much smoother ride than the Pilot, even on our pothole-filled dirt road. The 3.6r has plenty of power, and the lane assist takes some getting used to. Although some reviewers have noted body roll in the Outback, my husband and I disagree. We traded up for sure, and I still love my car to this day, even with 68,500 miles on it. However, I have noticed some issues with the front regulators and windows that could be costly in the long run. The automatic unlock function on the front doors also did not work properly this weekend, without touching the buttons on the key fob.I was thinking that the car might have been too cold or the road too dirty, since I had to travel for 2 hours. However, neither of these were the case. I will have to investigate the locking issue further. On the bright side, all the safety features, heated seats, and mechanical items are functioning within their normal limits. My absolute favorite feature on the Outback is the adaptive cruise control. When paired with the lane assist and blind spot detection, it feels like you have a self-driving car. I have taken this car on several road trips in the past 3 years. When driving from PA to CO, we would be going 70-75 mph and traffic would slow to a stop. We did NOT have to hit the brakes at all. Of course, I cover the brake just in case. There have been a few times that I have mashed on my brakes only because of my own comfort. I am 100% confident the car would have stopped in time. My husband routinely complains about the body roll and the rear end being
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Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with the vehicle I recently purchased. After reading some excellent reviews and talking to some owners of previous models, I decided to go for it. So far, I've only driven it for 120 miles, but I'm really happy with my choice. I opted for the 2.5 engine for better gas mileage, and I think the 170hp is plenty. The breaking performance is good, and the acceleration on the highway from 60 to 80 was good enough for this size engine. The car takes corners and curves very well and sticks to the road. The only downside I've found is the audio set, so if you're someone who values good audio in a car, this model might not be for you. If you're interested, you can read more about suggested improvements. Thanks for listening!
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Vehicle year: 2009
The last of the original Outback models, before they got too big. It has good handling, decent fuel economy, and reasonable comfort. Additionally, it has great reliability and good resale value. It's hard to beat a Subaru!
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Vehicle year: 2012
I can hardly believe that some of the other reviews are talking about the same car! This is actually my third Subaru (one Forester and two Outbacks). I purchased it pre-owned from the dealer with 35K miles on the odometer and now I'm at 50K and change. These cars run forever with just basic maintenance. When I first wanted a Subaru, my husband said, 'that's a Mom-Mobile'. However, after driving it, he agreed that this is a great car. The handling is solid in wet or dry conditions, and I have never experienced the 'drift' some reviewers mention. I did notice better handling since I bought new tires; I got better quality than the ones that came stock on the car. Although I don't like the placement of the clock (my 2007 Outback had it near the speedometer) and the AC/Heater controls on the 2007 were more user-friendly, those are pretty trivial complaints. I absolutely love the All Weather package (heated seats!). I don't need a heated steering wheel. My 2007 had navigation, and I wish this one had it, but I just use my smartphone. It could have more pep, but it's a 4 banger and not a sports car. I love the Bluetooth. I took the middle headrest out of the back seat to improve rear visibility (it pops right out). I feel so safe in this car!
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Vehicle year: 2002
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2002 Outback with you. When I first got it, I had an issue with the automatic seat not adjusting for height, but thankfully it was fixed free of charge while it was still under warranty. Recently, I've had a few more issues with the car, including an oil leak and needing to replace the head gaskets. I was worried about the cost, but my mechanic showed me a Subaru Service Bulletin that extended the warranty to 8 years and 100,000 miles if the vehicle was leaking coolant. Even though I wasn't yet leaking coolant, Subaru agreed to pay for half of the cost, including the head gaskets, water pump, and seals. I'm so grateful for their help and I still absolutely love my car!
Are you having problems with your Subaru Outback?
Benedict Sipes 2025-06-03
Vehicle year: 2018
The 2018 Outback's infotainment system began having problems just one week after purchase. Despite scheduling a service appointment for a software update, the head unit shut down and the backup camera failed to come on. The car was towed to the dealership and a new battery was installed. However, three days later, the head unit began malfunctioning again. This recurring issue has left me dissatisfied with the vehicle.
Adrian Muller 2025-06-02
Vehicle year: 2002
I traded my '96 5 speed manual for an '02 4 speed automatic Outback, but unfortunately, the quality of the latter did not meet my expectations. The engine had issues with idling and acceleration, even on the Interstate, which concerned me greatly. Upon further research, I discovered that the head gasket was a common problem on 1999-2002 models, and while there was a recall for some, not all were covered. The solution involved adding a conditioner to the coolant to seal the leak, which I found to be a temporary fix. Due to these issues, I made the confident decision to trade in my Outback.
Kale Abshire 2025-05-25
Vehicle year: 2002
At 114,000 miles, the dealer found some mechanical problems that cost $2100 to fix. The repairs included a new water pump, even though there was no water leak or change in antifreeze levels. Additionally, the spark plug wires had an oil valve leak and the car needed a $600 100,000 mile checkup. The rear brakes also needed to be replaced. The car has some wind noise and the bottom of the driver door seal is loose and leaks. During freezing North Dakota winters, the spring-loaded gas cap freezes shut. The interior is cramped and the gas mileage is average. In my 41 years of driving, I have never had a $2100 repair bill on any of my Hondas, Toyotas, or Nissans, some of which had over 200,000 miles. If I encounter one more problem, I will have to consider getting rid of this car.
Gianni Reichert 2025-05-21
Vehicle year: 2008
This is my third Subaru experience, and I wanted to share my thoughts on my 2008 Subie. Overall, it has been a reliable car that has not left me stranded yet. While there have been some issues with the engine noise and head gasket leaks, these were addressed and fixed under recall and regular maintenance. The brakes have held up well, and the car still drives and handles great. I recently purchased a new 2017 Outback Limited, and my wife and I are both big fans of Subaru. We test drove many cars in this price range, but ultimately, we chose Subaru for its reliability and performance.
Murphy Hodkiewicz 2025-05-18
Vehicle year: 2018
This is my second Outback. I had a 2014 Outback 3.6R which I bought new. From day one, I experienced a weird vibration problem with the car. Despite several attempts to fix the issue, it was never resolved. After three years, I sold the vehicle and bought another Outback. I loved the car, except for the vibration issue. Since I had suffered from the vibration issue before, I test drove the vehicle very carefully on the surface street and did not feel any vibration. However, I was wrong. After purchasing the vehicle, on the way home, I experienced shaking above 75 mph which got worse as the speed increased. I took it to one of the best local tire shops near my house to check the tires, hoping it was just a tire balance issue. This shop has a road force balance machine which costs $25 per wheel. I ended up paying $100 for the rebalancing of the tires. During the process, the owner of the place pulled me next to the machine and told me that my front left wheel (rim) was bent. I was shocked. I had just bought a brand new car with a bent wheel. Anyways, I made an appointment with the dealer and took it back the next week, telling them exactly what I was told. I dropped off the car and got a loaner, a 2018 Outback 3.6. This became a direct comparison for me because this one was smooth as butter. I noticed many other differences. I didn't get any road feedback vibration on the steering wheel, unlike mine which has this weird vibration through the steering. There was no weird body shake, no vibration on the seats, etc. Three days later, I went to pick up the car, and they told me that they didn't feel the vibration but they found out that the front left tire was out of round so they replaced it. I knew it wasn't the tire, it was the rim itself. I need to come back again. Anyways, on the way home, nothing changed.In fact, as soon as I drove off the lot from the dealer, I immediately noticed the vibration. It was not just high speed vibration, it vibrates all the time! Since I've just come from driving my buttery-smooth Outback, I could feel the vibration even more than I could have before. I'm taking it back next week again. If you're considering this car, make sure to test drive it on the highway to avoid any stress like I experienced every time I stepped into the car.