2008 Subaru Outback sport problems

General information about Subaru-Outback sport
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

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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Common 2008 Subaru Outback sport problems

The 2008 Subaru Outback Sport has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of them:

Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure: The 2008 Subaru Outback Sport is known to have cooling system problems that can lead to head gasket failure. This issue is a well-documented problem with the 2.5-liter engine, which can cause the engine to overheat and the head gasket to fail, leading to expensive repairs.

Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall: In 2010, Subaru issued a recall for the front oxygen (O2) sensors in the 2008 Outback Sport due to a manufacturing defect that could cause the sensors to fail. This recall affects certain vehicles equipped with the 2.5-liter engine and can cause the check engine light to illuminate and affect fuel efficiency.

Intermittent Problems with the Infotainment System: Some owners have reported intermittent problems with the infotainment system, including the display going blank and loss of function. This problem seems to be aggravated by extremes of ambient heat or cold and can affect the audio system and climate control.

Overheating Engine: The 2008 Subaru Outback Sport's engine can overheat, which can cause serious damage. Checking the coolant level periodically and keeping it topped up is essential to prevent this problem.

Failing Transmission: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, including slipping and a jarring bang when shifting from second to third gear. This problem can also cause the car to buck when driving at low speeds, and the engine can make a whining noise, which dealers may claim is normal.

Stiff Suspension: Some owners have reported that the suspension is extremely stiff, which can make the ride uncomfortable. This problem can persist even after adjusting the tire pressure, and it may not soften up over time.

These are some of the common problems reported by owners of the 2008 Subaru Outback Sport. If you own one of these vehicles, it's essential to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle's safety and reliability.

How many miles will a 2008 Subaru Outback last?

There are reports from loyal drivers that Subaru Outback milage can get up to 300,000 miles. This is of course with proper care and maintenance. As long as The Outback isn't starved for oil, you can expect to get at least 200,000 miles out of it without needing major repairs.

What year was bad for Subaru Outback?

2010 and 2011 Subaru Outbacks Stand Out as the Worst Years Due to High Recall Count, Excessive Oil Consumption, Head Gasket Failures, and Transmission Problems.

What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?

A: Common issues with Subaru Outbacks across various years include vibration during acceleration, problems with the AC system, O2 sensor failures, weak windshields prone to cracking, cooling system failures, headlight burnouts, excessive oil consumption, and unintended acceleration in specific models.

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.

What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?

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.

What are the weaknesses of a Subaru Outback?

The Subaru Outback is a vehicle with a lot of strengths but a fair number of weaknesses. Most Outbacks are long-lasting and reliable vehicles, but the head gasket issue and other problems can drastically shorten the life of Outbacks that have those problems.

Is Subaru Outback high maintenance?

The average annual repair cost for a Subaru is $617, which means it has above average ownership costs.

2008 Subaru Outback sport complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Subaru Outback sport.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2008 Subaru Outback sport recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2008 Subaru Outback sport.

2009-04-02

Manufacturer: THULE, INC.
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: THULE, INC. IS RECALLING 2,323 OWNER-INSTALLED ROOF-MOUNTED FIT KITS, MODELS 3068 AND 3069, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 28, 2009 THAT ARE USED WITH THULE PODIUM FOOT PACKS, MODELS 460 AND 460R. THESE FIT KITS WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BOLT(S) USED TO SECURE THE FOOT TO THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED TO A HARDNESS THAT MAY CAUSE THE BOLT(S) TO BE BRITTLE AND POTENTIALLY BREAK UNDER STRESS.
Consequence: THIS MAY RESULT IN THE BOLT(S) SNAPPING OFF DURING USE OR WITHOUT A LOAD. THE UNSECURED RACK AND LOAD CAN THEN COME LOOSE WHILE DRIVING CREATING A POTENTIAL ROAD HAZARD, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: THULE WILL MAIL A RETRO FIT KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS TO OWNERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THULE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-238-2388.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2008 Subaru Outback sport problems:

Should I buy this car? Its a 2008 Subaru Outback with 108,000 miles ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/isvzb0/should_i_buy_this_car_its_a_2008_subaru_outback/

Sep 15, 2020 ... Old Subarus are notorious for having leaking seals and blowing head gaskets. If those things have been taken care of (seals have been replaced,) ...

2008 Subaru Outback Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2008-subaru-outback/problems

Top 2008 Subaru Outback Problems · Vibration or Shudder on Acceleration · Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure · Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall.

2008 Outback problems : r/Subaru_Outback

https://www.reddit.com/r/Subaru_Outback/comments/162ak4p/2008_outback_problems/

Aug 26, 2023 ... 2008 Outback problems · External oil leak from the left head, which is where my burning oil smell is coming from · Timing belt and water pump ...

2008 Subaru Outback Problems | Kelley Blue Book

https://www.kbb.com/subaru/outback/2008/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2008 Subaru Outback? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.