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: 2013
I've been the proud owner of my 2013 2.5i Limited Outback for the past 2.5 years. Living in the SF Bay Area, I've taken it on several road trips, including a recent one to Vancouver, Canada. I've also taken it off-roading in Washington state and Utah, and it handled the terrain like a champ. In the winter, I take it to Lake Tahoe for some amazing snowboarding adventures. The AWD system is incredibly reliable and I trust it over other car brands. It's my daily driver and gets decent mpg, averaging 24 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The CVT with 173 hp is perfect for my needs, and I appreciate the car's spacious interior. The only issue I've had is with oil consumption, but the warning light comes on before it's completely empty, so it's easy to keep track of. As an experienced road tripper, I always carry engine coolant and oil, no matter the vehicle. The Subaru Outback fits my lifestyle perfectly - I wanted an outdoor vehicle with high ground clearance that wasn't an SUV, and this car has all the capabilities I need. The only downside is the hard plastic dash, but that was replaced with soft-touch materials in the 2015 and newer models.
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Vehicle year: 2000
This vehicle has been great! The AWD has proven itself in two major snowstorms that we have had here in the Midwest. It's a very comfortable cruiser with excellent handling, especially compared to any SUV. The cargo space is huge. The vehicle may not snap your head back with its performance, but acceleration is adequate in day-to-day driving situations. I'm definitely glad we bought this vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I've owned two Saabs in the past and I really appreciate a car that handles well and is enjoyable to drive. After trying out several cars, I can confidently say that the Subaru Outback is the best car I've ever driven and owned. The six-cylinder engine is almost as powerful as my old 3.0 Turbo-charged Saab, but the power delivery is much smoother. I suspect that the difference is due to the hydraulically mounted motor. Although I've only driven this car for about 1400 miles, it has been an absolute pleasure. The only downside is the comfort of the seats. While the lumbar support is great for the lower back, the seats are not as comfortable as those in our Jeep or Lexus.
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Vehicle year: 2015
This is an early review because I just got my '15 Outback Limited. I have only driven about 200 miles so far, but I am already in love with this car! I was initially hesitant about choosing the 4 over the 6, as I have never driven a car with less than 220 horses or a turbo. However, I am pleasantly surprised by the power of this car. It seems just fine to me, and I don't know when I will really need more power. On the other hand, the gas mileage is what really makes me glad I got the 4. So far, I have been driving the heck out of it, including a very long, bumpy, and hilly dirt road, and it just keeps creeping upward. I am now getting 26 mpgs all around town! The car has a pleasant manner and is very quiet. I absolutely love the interior!
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Vehicle year: 2008
We purchased a new Outback in 2008 after the head gaskets on our 1998 Outback failed at 135,000 miles. Although we considered other options, we ultimately returned to Subaru. The car is incredibly stable and sure-footed, even in the worst conditions, and it's very easy to drive. We're impressed with the design and body integrity. As of 3/28/16, the car has 107,000 miles on it and the engine and transmission are still going strong. While suspension bushings are a common failure, the major components are great. Some interior panels have developed waves and pockets that look like the thin foam under the imitation leather, but overall we're very satisfied with the car. We recently completed a recall on the airbags, and we received a letter from the manufacturer stating that the dashboard may develop symptoms similar to those mentioned earlier about the interior panels.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Outback?
Edison Upton 2025-03-29
Vehicle year: 2013
As a proud owner of six Subarus, I can confidently say that this latest model is the most refined one yet. The interior is incredibly comfortable and after 4000 miles, it performs exceptionally well in most areas. However, during my first extended highway drive, I noticed some wandering and had to make constant corrections to stay in my lane. Despite contacting the dealer, they claimed it was normal and refused to address the issue. As an experienced driver, I know that this is not normal and I urge potential buyers to be cautious before making a purchase.
Rodolfo Dibbert 2025-03-28
Vehicle year: 2012
We purchased a CPO with 55k miles and opted for the Subaru Gold Plus warranty. Unfortunately, in the subsequent 35k miles, it has required significant repairs about once per year. This year, it has been in the shop three times for repairs costing over $1000 each time. Thankfully, these repairs were covered under warranty. Recently, it broke down on the highway and we had to tow it to a Subaru dealer. Unfortunately, it has been sitting there for eight days because it seems like every Subaru dealer in the country is too busy. It will require over eight hours to diagnose the problem and the repairs will likely cost over $6000. Despite our factory extended warranty and consistent dealer maintenance, Subaru has been unclear about whether the repairs will be covered. We were unable to get a loaner from the dealer because it was closed and we were on a road trip, so we had to rent from Enterprise. Again, Subaru has not been clear about whether they will cover the rental expenses, even though we were unable to get a loaner at the time and their service centers were unable to look at our car in a reasonable time. Unfortunately, this car has been the worst I've ever owned, including a used, questionable high-mileage Cavalier. I hope Subaru can improve their service to match their reliability.
Joel Pfannerstill 2025-03-27
Vehicle year: 2012
I live and work in town, so my 2012 Outback has only 32,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, I've had a few issues with it. The seat dips quite low, causing some discomfort, but my physical therapist recommended a sacrum wedge which has helped. I've had some trouble with the sunroof and experienced an oil drain, but these were resolved. Recently, I've noticed some skipping or slipping when I accelerate, and my mechanic has advised that I need a new transmission which is quite expensive. There have also been a few recalls. This is my second Outback, and while I want to love it, both have had some problems. My previous Outback had a mysterious battery issue, but despite replacing it twice, the problem persisted. I'm still searching for that one car that will last me 200,000 or 250,000 miles, but unfortunately, neither of my Outbacks have made it past 50,000. It's a shame, really.
Joaquin Mueller 2025-03-26
Vehicle year: 2024
I am the proud owner of a Subaru Outback Touring TX since August 2024. However, I have noticed that the screen can be slow to respond and requires patience when starting up. Additionally, some buttons disappear when the screen changes, such as AVH. On a few occasions, my wife's iPhone 12 Pro was not recognized by the car, even after restarting it. Despite these minor issues, we are grateful for the built-in navigation system that has been helpful during our travels. I have also noticed that the cabin lights and driver storage are limited, which can be inconvenient at times. During a recent trip to the mountains, we encountered some dashboard warnings after a cold weather start, which was concerning. Although it was not the experience we were hoping for, we were able to safely make it back home. While temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius are not uncommon during our outdoor activities, I am confident that Subaru will address these issues and continue to provide reliable vehicles for all of our adventures.
Dillan Ferry 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2009
I purchased my XT used in 2011 with 27,000 miles from a dealer for $26,500. To ensure my car was well-maintained, I bought an extended warranty for $2,500 and regularly changed the oil every 3,000 miles. Over the years, I had a couple of brake jobs and replaced a few sets of tires. Unfortunately, while driving home from a restaurant, my car suddenly died and I had to pull over to the side of the road. After being towed to the dealer, I was told that I needed a new engine due to metal shavings in the oil. Despite the high cost of $9,000 quoted by the dealer, I decided to replace the short block, turbo, water pump, and timing belt, and Subaru gave me $2,500 towards the cost. I also had to replace the rear bearing for $1,000. Despite these repairs, my car now has 208,000 miles and I was driving to Waterloo, IA when it lost power and the dash lights started blinking. After being towed to the dealer, I was told that the car had a bad valve and was quoted $3,600 for a valve job, timing belt, and water pump, plus an additional $4,100 in miscellaneous costs. After careful consideration, I decided to sell the car to a mechanic for $1,250. Although I had a few issues with my Subaru, I will always remember the good times I had with it.