2021 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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Common 2021 Subaru Outback problems
The 2021 Subaru Outback has been reported to have several common problems, including cracked windshields, electrical system issues, and transmission problems.
One of the most common issues reported is cracked windshields, with some drivers experiencing multiple cracks within a year of ownership.
Electrical system problems are another significant concern for 2021 Subaru Outback owners. The touch screen and center console are prone to unexpected shutoffs, which can affect critical elements like cruise control and navigation. This can lead to sudden deceleration even at highway speeds, potentially causing accidents.
Transmission problems have also been reported, with some drivers experiencing jerky transmissions. This can affect the overall driving experience and lead to concerns about the vehicle's reliability.
In addition to these issues, some owners have reported problems with the heating and cooling systems, as well as rapidly drained batteries. These problems can affect the vehicle's performance and lead to additional repair costs.
It is important to note that while these issues have been reported, not all 2021 Subaru Outback owners have experienced these problems. Some owners have reported positive experiences with the vehicle, noting its overall quality, comfort, and reliability. However, it is essential to be aware of these common problems when considering a purchase of this vehicle.
Is 2021 Subaru Outback reliable?
The 2021 Subaru Outback has a predicted reliability score of 71 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Does 2021 Subaru Outback have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and always change your fluids at least each 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2021 Subaru Outback transmission will rapidly slip.
What was the major problem for Subaru Outback?
Denso Fuel Pump Failure
The impellers inside of Denso branded fuel pumps may have been excessively exposed to a drying agent during manufacturing. This leads to them cracking, absorbing fuel, and deforming so badly that they stop sending fuel to the engine. Subaru…
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.
Are Subaru Outback 2021 reliable?
The 2021 Subaru Outback has a predicted reliability score of 71 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Does 2021 Subaru Outback have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and always change your fluids at least each 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2021 Subaru Outback transmission will rapidly slip.
What is the biggest problem with 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.
What are the electrical problems with the 2021 Subaru Outback?
there are many reports of electrical problems with the 2021 Subaru Outback, such as battery drain, car not starting, and driver assist system failure. Some of these problems may be related to the installation of an automatic staller, which is a device that shuts off the engine when the car is idle to save fuel.
2021 Subaru Outback car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Outback problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Subaru Outback vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2021 Subaru Outback
The NHTSA has received 256 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Subaru Outback. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2021 Subaru Outback vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 4S4BTAAC7M3
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Thermo control valve failure. Would not cover it
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 4S4BTGLD1M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Since owning this vehicle, we have replaced the windshield at least once a year. The first due to a 1/16th inch chip that evolved into a 10 inch crack over the course of a day. The second was a crack from driver side pillar that appeared overnight, no chips prior. Third was a 8" crack from passenger pillar that appeared overnight while garage parked, after a day, it grew to reach the center of the windshield. I think it's unacceptable that windshields can just crack overnight less than a year after install. It's beyond concerning knowing that our windshield could crack at anytime, or that superficial chips must be taken care of IMMEDIATELY or we run the risk of replacing the entire windshield.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- VIN: 4S4BTGLD6M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery keeps draining if car isn't driven for a few days battery is drained to point of it being dead, cannot get into car, will not start, leaves you stranded. This is the fourth time this year, dealer checks it out tells me nothing is wrong. I have read many problems with parasitic battery drain with subaru's even that the alternator is programed not to fully charge the battery to save gas. getting tired of the issue to the point where I am thinking of selling the car and finding something that will not leave me stranded. This time when I checked the battery voltage it was 5.80 volts and .29 amps.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- VIN: 4S4BTADC4M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: The auto restart does not work and requires a car restart to fix. The latest software update caused this is to happen.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 4S4BTAPC1M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Parasitic Draw on battery: Original battery was dead after sitting 5 days; Bought new AMG and it has also died after 4 days sitting.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- VIN: 4S4BTAAC9M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ON thursday night at about [XXX] i was driving in the carpool lane going north.in the [XXX] , with full tank of gas ; suddenly i felt and here a noise, and the vehicle (2021outback base) start losing power, at the point that totally stop. call 911, and few minutes after the hway patrol came and push us out of the freeway, there was not any shoulder to be safe out. when the police officer try to turn it on the vehicle star but no power was available even when the vehicle was on.. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 4S4BTADC0M3
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The car flashed “eye sight off” before flickering and shutting off while I was braking at a stop light. I tried putting my car into park and then turning it off and restarting it but it would not turn back on. I tried this a few more times but I was in the middle lane of a heavily trafficked street. The steering wheel was locked and I was not able to immediately remove it from the road and maybe an hour later it was able to be shifted into neutral and moved out of the street. However, it would still not turn on and when I did open my power gate, the gate would not secure closed. I took it to the dealership that I purchased it at and where it is also regularly serviced (with the last service date only over one week ago,) and they were not able to determine what happened but instead mentioned that my car had no internal data of any errors occurring and that the car was able to be started when they serviced it. I took a picture of the dash as it was flashing with all of the error codes and submitted that to the tech that was working on my car, but they asked me if I’d had someone “clear my codes” which is not something I’m familiar with or even capable of doing- I don’t even know anyone that would be capable of doing that for me. The whole ordeal cost me a day of work and now my peace of mind as I am unsure of if this may happen again and now I am worried it may happen while my kids are in the car. I’ve had similar issues with my center console messing up but nothing as urgent as my whole car shutting down and my steering wheel locking in the middle of traffic.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- VIN: 4S4BTGLD6M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery drains quickly and renders the car inoperable. Possibly due to Controller Area Network (CAN) not entering sleep mode when vehicle is not being used resulting in a parasitic battery drain.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- VIN: 4S4BTADC1M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Today while waiting at a stop light the auto start stop engaged. When the light went green I put my foot on the gas and the vehicle stalled. The car was on but not running, several alarms were on the dashboard. I had to put the car in park, turn it off and then restart the car. This is a repeated issue and has been going on at least once a month since we purchased the car in 2021. We've brought it to the dealer and they said there was nothing wrong because there was no OBD code. I have checked myself and I have not found any code. This is extremely unsafe
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-03
- VIN: 4S4BTAPC4M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 2021 Subaru Outback Limited | ~13000 miles | Component: Battery | Car suddenly stopped and ALL warning lights started flashing at a busy traffic signal, while I was waiting to take a left turn (lucky to have escaped safely from that situation). I had to turn the car off and restart it. 2 days later, the car would not start at all. Tried jumping it multiple time in vain. Had to tow the car to the nearest Subaru service center. Technician ran a diagnostic and concluded that the battery was not holding any charge at all and it was deemed faulty. Reading many posts on reddit and other forums of many Subaru owners facing the same issue from older (2015) to newer models. Many of them also complained of Parasitic drain on the battery due to faulty DCM on Starlink. Note: there was no warning lights/messages or any other symptom before this. This was a Subaru certified pre-owned car that went through a 152 point inspection in 2023.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-29
- VIN: 4S4BTGPD7M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Driving home on a farm road, a truck passed by, picking up a pebble that hit my windshield. On my other vehicles, that same impact would leave a chip on the windshield but due to its light thickness, it immediately formed a long crack that is continually growing in size as it is currently my daily commuter to work. That was a huge bummer given I had purchased it recently and it didn't have any blemishes on the windshield. The pebble hit the upper driver side part which led the crack to form out toward the roof and is going diagonal to the passenger side below the visor.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- VIN: 4S4BTADC0M3
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Outback. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V227000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- VIN: 4S4BTANC4M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Front windshield on my 2021 outback has numerous large cracks for no reason. This is a known issue via Google and class action law suits for windshields. This is a safety issue and needs to be addressed. I emailed Subaru and filed a complaint with them, Case#240708-220236. Asking them to replace windshield with new one that won't crack like this one. i have photos if needed.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
- VIN: 4S4BTGLD2M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield cracked under heat from parking in sun. The windshield spontaneously cracked when wiper fluid was turned on after parking on hot (85F) day. The whole windshield spidered indicating it is under extreme stress.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
- VIN: 4S4BTANC5M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to jumpstart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed with battery failure. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The battery was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-30
- VIN: 4S4BTAPC2M3
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On[XXX] while accelerating to travel speed (45 mph) on a rural Maine highway, the little used glass moon roof of our 2021 Subaru Outback Touring with 24,100 miles on the odometer exploded with a huge, shocking BANG!. Weather was clear and bright, wind ~5 mph, temperature about 68ºF, no traffic. We never saw or heard anything strike the car, either from the road or falling down from the trees at or prior to this incident. We had the interior shade closed so no glass fell into passenger compartment thankfully. Upon inspection at the road side and discovery of the problem, the glass panel had a large hole in the middle and the edges of the remaining glass looked like it had been blown upward. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-20
- VIN: 4S4BTGPD9M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the starter motor was making an abnormal clicking sound. The contact stated that after several attempts the vehicle was started. Additionally, the contact stated that at times the instrument cluster was blank. The contact stated that he purchased a battery charger and recharged the battery; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that once he had fully charged the battery the vehicle was started; however, sometimes the vehicle failed to shut off and the battery terminals had to be disconnected. The contact drove the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed that the OE battery was not sufficiently powerful to start the vehicle and provide power all the electrical functions. The dealer installed a new battery with more amperage and new cables. The vehicle was repaired. The contact was informed by the dealer that the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
- VIN: 4S4BTANC0M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windshield developed a crack. It initially started with what appeared to be a small rock impacting the bottom of the windshield where the wipers rest on the glass. The area of impact was the size of a small rock. A crack started forming and going upwards towards the roof of the car. Due to the heat in Alabama, the crack grew from 3 inches to approximately 9 inches. No safety features have been effected. I do commute 160 miles total for work, daily, so a crack that large necessarily creates a dangerous driving situation.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-08
- VIN: 4S4BTADC0M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windshield has cracked now, unprovoked for the second time in the exact same way it did 2 years ago. I came out to my car and it was parked, and the same crack it had 2 years ago was visible on the windshield. A crack starting from the passenger side that travels to the middle of the windshield. I have heard about many other Subaru drivers having this issue and their windshield cracking the exact same way. The first time I had it replaced I took it to the dealership and had to pay, and they replaced it with OEM glass.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-02
- VIN: 4S4BTANC7M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Windshield breaks way too easy. Rock chips happen easily, then they spread across the whole windshield. I am on my 2nd one and this one needs to be replaced too.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-22
- VIN: 4S4BTGND9M3
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: The car was built & sold new, with the rear suspension not aligned properly, and cannot be aligned to factory specifications. The car has been taken to 4 service stations, 3 Subaru dealer service repair shops, without being able to be aligned.after further investigation, I’ve found this to be a common problem for this vehicle type. I consider this Safety related due to the unusual tire wear & risk of tire failure.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-07
- VIN: 4S4BTGPD0M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The windshield is very light and delicate. I have had two cracked windshields in less that two years, Also, the glass is so soft that it gets tons of micro-pits from sand. At night they each disperse lights and make it difficult to see.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-13
- VIN: 4S4BTACC0M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Chipped windshield quickly progressed to full crack, which necessitated windshield replacement.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-03
- VIN: 4S4BTAPC2M3
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: failure/malfunction of thermo coolant control valve some of the systems safety features have been disabled making it unsafe for me to drive vehicle The car gets hot and high beams don’t work heater doesn’t work. Diagnostic was performed by independent mechanic determining this issue Warning lights on dashboard to check engine and many other lights flashed Repairs cost over $1700 which is not affordable especially since this a manufacturer defective part.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-05
- VIN: 4S4BTANC8M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 12 inch Crack developed in windshield while car was parked in garage. No chips along the entire crack or in its vicinity. Car/windshield were less than 3 years old.
2021 Subaru Outback recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2021 Subaru Outback.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
- Consequence: An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-22. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-955.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:SHIFT LINKAGE/CABLE/ROD
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Outback and Impreza vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) select lever cable nut may not have been tightened properly, allowing the nut to loosen.
- Consequence: A loose nut can lead to a lost of retention in the CVT select lever cable and the gear selector not functioning properly, increasing risk of crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and, if necessary, tighten the nut, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-21.
Negative 2021 Subaru Outback car reviews
Positive 2021 Subaru Outback car reviews
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Congratulations on your 4th Subaru Outback! It's great to hear that the 2021 Outback Limited is a major upgrade from your 2011 Outback Limited, with lots of bells and whistles. While there may be some car homework involved, it's wonderful that there are options to turn off some of the digital features that may not be necessary for a single owner/driver. Eye-sight may take some getting used to, but it's a great addition. The 2021 model with 18 inch wheels delivers a heavier, sturdier, and smoother ride, with much improved road noise. The interior redesign is also wonderful, making it feel and look like a car from the next class up. It's great to hear that you're very pleased with your purchase. The dealer you purchased from sounds very helpful, offering a
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I recently retired and moved from CA to an area between Reno and Lake Tahoe, NV. Wanted something good in snow, practical and reliable.Bought an Outback Premium a little over three months and 1200 miles ago. Also considered the Forester but it just didn't have the overall appeal to me. Being a Toyota fan (my last two cars were Lexus LS and GS) so considered the RX and NX but just don't like the new look especially the front end, plus they are getting increasingly expensive to service.My wife drives a 2017 Highlander Limited which in my opinion is still the best 3 row mid size SUV on the market. It was bigger than what I wanted of needed. Test drove the RAV4 Limited both regular and hybrid but they felt kind of tinny to me. The new Venza was my second choice but the visibility wasn't great and I had concerns about a first year vehicle.I am quite impressed with the Outback. Great on the highway, handles reasonably well, is quiet and has a very solid feel to it. Am getting 29-30 mpg combined highway and city according to the display. I like the design inside and out. Seems well put together with lots of nice little features and a terrific base sound system. Not sure what I think of the Information Screen but am starting to like it, all the tech takes getting used to. The only criticism is the lack of power going up the mountains. The turbo versions eliminates that but I didn't want all the extra features and like getting reasonable decent mileage.Overall I am pleased with the Outback and so far would recommend it to anyone looking for a small to midsize wagon/SUV.Edmonds wanted an update. The car is now a little over 9 months old with approximately 3500 miles. One of the reasons I wanted the Outback was it’s reputation in snow. Unfortunately we only had one month of snow but it handled it well. It is still a pleasure to drive, the mileage has dropped to between 28-29 about 50/50 city and highway. I would like more power going uphill but it’s fine most of the time. Still a little confused about the Multimedia Screen but at least it doesn’t stick up high on the dash like lots of cars today. I like the versatility of a wagon provides without being too big. Just a nice mid range vehicle.So would I still recommend it, yes!
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You won't be disappointed! The ride is so smooth, and there's less road noise thanks to the better insulation that allows the car to cool quicker in summer and heat quicker in winter. Plus, the steering wheel controls are right at your fingertips, and I love the larger menu screen.
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I was pleasantly surprised by the Subaru Outback; it exceeded my expectations. I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. The car drives smoothly, has incredible visibility, and looks very classy as well.
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This is a great car, although it could benefit from more color options. I have purchased three of these cars and would not hesitate to buy another.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Subaru Outback problems:
2021 Subaru Outback - Issues During My First Year of Ownership ...
Aug 26, 2022 ... The AC failure and interior leaks are a bit unusual to hear about though. No new product is ever perfect, and there have definitely been more ...
2021 Subaru Outback: Why You Should Avoid This Car
Dec 16, 2021 ... The vehicle has a range of problems. The most common complaints cover “exterior accessory” issues, specifically related to the windshield.
2021 Subaru Outback Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
May 2, 2023 ... Common problems found on the 2021 Subaru Outback include excessive battery drain, the stereo system freezing, along with low airflow to the rear ...
Is it common with the 2021 Outback that when an automatic staller is ...
Nov 19, 2023 ... there are many reports of electrical problems with the 2021 Subaru Outback, such as battery drain, car not starting, and driver assist ...
2021 Subaru Outback Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · In-car Electronics · Electrical Accessories · Exhaust · Climate System · Body Hardware · Engine Minor · Noises And Leaks · Paint ...
Other years of Subaru Outback
Are you having problems with your 2021 Subaru Outback?
Connor Dibbert 2025-02-16
Do you ever feel like your grumpiest grandma is riding with you, constantly reminding you to keep your eyes on the road, both hands on the steering wheel, and to watch your distance from other cars? The active lane assist may not be perfect, as it doesn't account for the potholes in Northwest PA or passing cars that are too close to the center line, but the blind spot indicators are a great feature. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of cargo space. However, adjusting the cabin temperature can be a bit tricky with the touch screen controls. The car's acceleration may not be the most impressive, but it will eventually reach cruising speed. The cruise control can be a bit confusing, with two settings and 5 mph increments, but it's still a useful feature. Overall, this car has its quirks, but it's a comfortable and reliable ride.Overall, I'll stick with my 2018 Subaru Outback. It's always more fun to drive with a standard transmission, don't you think?
Walton Carroll 2025-01-29
Note: Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my 2021 Subaru Touring. My family and I have been loyal Subaru owners since 2007 and have owned SEVEN Subarus over the years. While I absolutely love the smooth ride and quieter cabin, I have had some issues with the electronics. Unfortunately, they have been quite unpredictable and have caused some nuisances since I’ve owned the car. For example, the screen has completely shut down several times, causing me to lose power for up to 10 minutes, and the radio has whacked out on three occasions, blaring an unbelievable crackle that could pierce your eardrums. Additionally, I have found the navigation to be quite useless and unintuitive, and the screen is hypersensitive and seldom makes the desired selection. I was wondering, who at Subaru validated and approved this control center design and supplier? I think there is definitely room for improvement. Overall, I am disappointed that such a great car is supported by an electronic control system that needs some work. Thank you for listening!
Rupert Casper 2025-01-20
We purchased a 2021 Outback with only 14 miles two months ago. Unfortunately, about a month in, the car's lights came on, including the check engine light, and it started making an odd sound. We took it to the dealer and were without the car for over two weeks. Then, earlier this week on Tuesday the 17th, my husband was driving up a hill to visit his family when the car started jerking and all the lights came on again before dying. Thankfully, he was able to get it going again and pulled into a parking lot where he called for help. It's been three days and our new car still isn't here. While it's been frustrating, we're hopeful that the dealer will be able to fix the issue and we'll be back on the road soon. We loved our previous Subaru that lasted over 10 years, and we're confident that this Outback will be just as reliable once the issue is resolved.
Torrance Braun 2025-01-10
I purchased this vehicle brand new in December 2020. Unfortunately, I have experienced several issues with it. Within 80 miles, the TPMS warning light came on, even though the tire pressure and tires were fine. I was informed that a recall on the computer system would fix the issue, but after around 100 miles, the problem persisted. I have taken the car in for service three times for this issue. Additionally, I have noticed a horrible leak in the front, resulting in large puddles of water in the floorboard and under the mat on the passenger side next to the gear shift. Although I was told that the molding was bad and needed to be replaced, this does not explain the water in the floorboard by the center console. The car engine also stops and starts at will without changing any settings, which is irregular and concerning. The dash lights indicating eyesight off, lane assistance, and crash avoidance all come on intermittently, but then disappear after a few miles down the road. The TPMS warning light also randomly disappears and reappears. Despite having less than 1600 miles on a brand new, rarely driven 4.5-month-old vehicle, I have had to schedule a fourth trip for service. While I am frustrated with the issues I have experienced, I am hopeful that the service department will be able to resolve them. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Lowell Schmeler 2024-11-07
This is my 5th Subaru and I have always loved these cars. However, I have noticed some changes in my new 21 model that are a bit disappointing. For instance, the manufacturer has removed the pull switch for the gas tank inside the car, which could make it easier for someone to steal your gas. Additionally, the lift lever for the hood is now a bit difficult to pull out of the clip. I miss the nice automatic hydraulic lift switch that was present in previous models. Furthermore, the safe blue lights by the door locks are no longer available, making it difficult to find the locks in the dark. Despite these changes, I still love the blue color and the eye sight when it works. I hope the manufacturer will consider these issues and make some improvements in the future. Thank you for your attention.