Subaru Outback problems

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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".

photo of Subaru Outback car production

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Subaru Outback model years

subaru outback 2024 photo
Outback 2024
Subaru

2

0

23

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2023 photo
Outback 2023
Subaru

68

2

29

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2022 photo
Outback 2022
Subaru

394

4

33

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2021 photo
Outback 2021
Subaru

256

4

36

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2020 photo
Outback 2020
Subaru

844

6

27

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2019 photo
Outback 2019
Subaru

952

3

35

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2018 photo
Outback 2018
Subaru

736

3

24

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2017 photo
Outback 2017
Subaru

874

4

28

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2016 photo
Outback 2016
Subaru

605

4

30

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2015 photo
Outback 2015
Subaru

474

5

37

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2014 photo
Outback 2014
Subaru

202

10

36

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2013 photo
Outback 2013
Subaru

284

12

39

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2012 photo
Outback 2012
Subaru

283

16

34

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2011 photo
Outback 2011
Subaru

634

16

32

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2010 photo
Outback 2010
Subaru

351

18

30

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2009 photo
Outback 2009
Subaru

104

13

33

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2008 photo
Outback 2008
Subaru

224

8

37

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2007 photo
Outback 2007
Subaru

127

8

31

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2006 photo
Outback 2006
Subaru

278

7

35

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2005 photo
Outback 2005
Subaru

270

9

35

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2004 photo
Outback 2004
Subaru

90

11

34

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2003 photo
Outback 2003
Subaru

95

15

33

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2002 photo
Outback 2002
Subaru

153

5

34

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2001 photo
Outback 2001
Subaru

170

4

32

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 2000 photo
Outback 2000
Subaru

215

2

32

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 1999 photo
Outback 1999
Subaru

112

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 1998 photo
Outback 1998
Subaru

141

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 1997 photo
Outback 1997
Subaru

80

4

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 1996 photo
Outback 1996
Subaru

48

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru outback 1995 photo
Outback 1995
Subaru

2

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

Subaru Outback

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

  1. Tad Hessel 2025-04-21

    Vehicle year: 2014

    Our 1998 Outback served you well, so you decided to upgrade to the 2014 model. It sounds like you had quite the adventure on your 3700 mile test drive to southern Baja and back! It's great to hear that the car performed well, even on some pretty rough desert roads. While it may not be a luxury or sports car, it seems like the 2014 Outback is a solid mid-range car that can handle a wide range of uses and conditions.

  2. Roberto Stamm 2025-04-19

    Vehicle year: 2014

    If you're considering purchasing this car, it may be worth considering other options. While it does have some positive features such as great ground clearance, great AWD, great cargo space, a good low-speed gear ratio, and bearable fuel economy on the highway, I personally regret purchasing it. In my experience, it was underpowered (a common issue with crossovers), had a poorly built CVT, and underwhelming infotainment. Additionally, I encountered severe electrical problems, catalytic converter problems, problems with burning oil, transmission problems, brake problems, and many unfortunate rattles, which amounted to over $4k in repairs during one visit to the auto shop. Keep in mind that it was clearly babied and driven mostly on the highway before I bought it. If you're set on purchasing a car from this year, I would recommend considering a Honda CRV or Toyota RAV4 instead.

  3. Trevion Reilly 2025-04-15

    Vehicle year: 2013

    This Outback is my first Subaru, and while it may be my last, I have had some good experiences with it. Although I had high expectations for this car due to the excellent reviews from prior models, I have noticed some issues after driving it for 40,000 miles. It burns 1 quart of oil every 1000-1200 miles, which Subaru says is normal, but I find it a bit concerning. Additionally, there is a constant vibration at highway speeds that is NOT tire related, which can be a bit annoying. There are also some large gaps in the body panels, and the hatch doesn't even line up, indicating some room for improvement in build quality. Lastly, the seat is already starting to deform, and I'm not a big person. There is also a constant rattle on deceleration, and the stock stereo speakers are probably the worst I've ever seen. Despite these issues, I still appreciate my Outback and hope to see some improvements in future models.

  4. Seth Braun 2025-04-13

    Vehicle year: 2007

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my 07 Outback. My family has been loyal to Subarus since the 1980s and we absolutely love them. I bought my Outback in 2010 with 100K miles and it ran like a top for a year with just basic maintenance like oil changes. Of course, the timing belt needed to be replaced, which was expected. However, we've had some issues since then. We had to replace the head gaskets because they were leaking on the coolant side, which blew a hole in the radiator. But we fixed that! Then, the car wouldn't start intermittently, but it turned out to be a bad O-ring on the fuel pump. We also had to replace all the struts because the tires were wearing at an angle. We changed the O2 sensors, but the catalytic converter still needs to be replaced and the CEL is still on. Overall, I'm a bit disappointed with the reliability of this vehicle, but I still love my Subaru. Thanks for listening!

  5. Raymond Keeling 2025-04-08

    Vehicle year: 2010

    I purchased a 2010 2.5i Premium Outback for my wife when we moved out into the country, after hearing nothing but amazing things about the brand. The car was comfortable, great looking and offered fantastic traction. Despite buying it used with 80k miles on it, I was confident that it was still in great condition. However, over the course of 4 months, the car experienced several issues, including brake calipers falling apart, bad engine mounts, torque converter failure, and engine trouble. Despite spending over $3,000 on repairs, the car continued to have issues. When it stalled out entirely, I knew it was time to make a change. I traded it in for a 2012 CR-V EX-L at the Honda dealer and am now confident in my choice. Although I was disappointed with the Outback, I am now back in a Honda and couldn't be happier.

Latest positive Subaru Outback car reviews

  1. Darryl Steuber 2025-04-21

    Vehicle year: 2011

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with the 2011 Outback. I've actually owned a couple of Outbacks before this one, an '07 and an '09, but I have to say that this one is my favorite so far. It's been great for me, especially since I put on a lot of miles each year in all kinds of weather here in North Dakota. One thing I've noticed is that it rides really well and has more room than the previous models. Plus, I'm getting better gas mileage - around 28-30 MPG on the interstate (going 77 MPH), 33 MPG on the 2 lane roads (going 67 MPH), and 24-26 MPG in town. The car handles really well and is just a pleasure to drive. I opted for the premium model, which has some nice touches without being too over-the-top. And the clearance is fantastic, especially in the snow we get up here. I actually test drove a CX-9 when I was looking for a new car, but I found that the Outback was a much better fit for my family. Thanks for listening!

  2. Luis Renner 2025-04-21

    Vehicle year: 2015

    This car is amazing! I have owned a Legacy and 2 Outbacks in the last 5 years, and each one has been better than the last. It's a popular car in my area. In the past, I used to rely on pages like this, but some people just seem to nitpick every little thing, even imaginary ones! I encourage you to try this car for yourself and not let others make up your mind for you. Trust me, you'll love it. While no car is perfect, the gas mileage on the 2.5 isn't quite as advertised, but whose is? The voice command isn't perfect, but it's better than most. For quality and cost, you can't get better than a Subaru! Update: I still have the 15 3.6, and it's still amazing. I had to have the infotainment screen replaced under warranty for lines on the screen, but I still love it so much that I bought a second one, the 18 3.6 Touring, and this is the best one yet!

  3. Hobart Harris 2025-04-20

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Overall, this is an awesome car! The Outback merges safety with functionality and driving fun. The opposed 4-cylinder (H4) has great pick-up.

  4. Santos Tillman 2025-04-18

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I purchased my 5spd OBXT Limited brand new back in 2006 and have been extremely satisfied with its performance. After 6 years and 53K miles, I have not encountered a single issue with the car. The paint has held up remarkably well and is very chip-resistant. When it comes to traction, the car is unstoppable in snow, easily handling two-foot drifts with its tenacious AWD and ample road clearance. If you live in or near a snow belt, these cars are at the very top of the food chain. The best part is the car's performance, as the XT has some STi DNA and can easily outperform Audi A4's in the stoplight wars. Overall, I absolutely love my car and plan to ride it for another 6 years!

  5. Kareem Konopelski 2025-04-17

    Vehicle year: 2001

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I absolutely loved my Subaru that I bought back in '05. It had just over 50,000 miles on it and it was such a great car. It was amazing in the snow and I never got stuck during those Utah winters. Of course, with 127,000 miles on it, I did have to replace the tie rods and cv joint, but that's to be expected. The car rode so smoothly and felt really substantial on the road without being too heavy. I was getting around 20-24 miles per gallon, which was great. The head gaskets did seep oil and the check engine light had a mind of its own, but the car still ran like a champ! I'm actually a huge Subaru fan and this was my third one. I recently sold it to buy a newer car, but I'm really regretting that decision because I miss it so much. It was perfect for towing, camping, and hauling all sorts of things. Thanks for listening to me gush about my old car!

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