2009 Subaru Outback sport 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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Common 2009 Subaru Outback sport problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2009 Subaru Outback Sport, several common problems have been reported:
- Rear Hatch Failing to Latch: Another common problem is the rear hatch failing to latch and lock at around 115,000 miles. The latch and lock assembly wear out over time, necessitating a replacement that costs approximately $450.
- Burnt-Out Headlights: Burnt-out headlights are more frequent in Outback models at around 30,000 miles compared to other vehicles. While changing the bulbs is a relatively easy process, it can cost under $100.
- Recalls: The 2009 Subaru Outback has 14 recalls, with the most serious one related to brake lines that can fail due to corrosion, leading to increased braking distances. Other recalls are primarily for airbags, a common issue in used vehicles that can be resolved by replacement.
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues to ensure the longevity and performance of the 2009 Subaru Outback Sport.
Is the 2009 Outback reliable?
Reliability ratings are above average.
We recommend Outback models from 2006-2009, with more mechanical problems showing up in models from 2010–2018. Performance is average from the standard 4-cylinder, however the turbo 4-cylinder and V6 offer great power.
How many miles will 2009 Subaru Outback last?
All this road-tripping takes a toll, but the Outback, if properly maintained, can last drivers even up to 300,000 miles. This means that the average driver could expect to get 15 to 20 years out of their Subaru. Conservative drivers could see Outbacks last much longer.
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 is the most common problem with a Subaru Outback?
Some top Subaru Outback problems include weak windshields, poor cooling systems, oxygen sensor failure, excessive oil consumption due to oil leaks, and faulty airbags.
Is the 2009 Outback reliable?
Reliability ratings are above average.
We recommend Outback models from 2006-2009, with more mechanical problems showing up in models from 2010–2018. Performance is average from the standard 4-cylinder, however the turbo 4-cylinder and V6 offer great power.
Is the 2009 Subaru Outback safe?
Safety. The 2009 Subaru Outback comes standard with antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and anti-whiplash front head restraints. In government crash tests, the Outback earned a perfect five stars across the board for frontal- and side-impact collisions.
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.
2009 Subaru Outback sport complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Subaru Outback sport.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2009 Subaru Outback sport recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2009 Subaru Outback sport.
- 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 2009 Subaru Outback sport problems:
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