While its name evokes rugged trails and the great outdoors, the Subaru Outback is more often seen as a suburban daily driver thanks to its spacious interior, excellent maneuverability, and premium features. But how reliable is it? This guide provides a quick breakdown of Subaru Outback reliability ratings, common problems, and the best years out of its lineup.
Are Subaru Outbacks Reliable?
The Subaru Outback has received good marks from industry reviewers but offers nothing groundbreaking. RepairPal scores the latest Outback with an above-average rating of 3.5 out of 5, which is the standard for midsize SUVs of its class. JD Power awards it an ‘Average’ score of 80/100 for reliability, while Edmunds gives it a 7.7, praising the Outback’s excellent fuel mileage and practical design, but noting the lack of significant updates in recent models.
Repairs can also be expensive with the Subaru Outback, with average repair costs going a little over $600 compared to just $570 for the average SUV. Owners, in particular, cited the Outback’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) system, which can prove to be difficult to repair and find spare parts for when it breaks down.
What Are the Most Common Issues with Subaru Outbacks?
While it’s safe to answer the question, “Is the Subaru Outback a good car?” with a yes, there are still some recurring issues in certain model years that current and prospective owners may want to be aware of. The following, in particular, are common problems with this SUV, with some leading to Subaru Outback recalls.
Rough Acceleration
Many Subaru Outback owners have reported strong vibrations when accelerating. This is often resolved by replacing the transmission torque converter with an updated version.
Affected Model Years:
- 2000
- 2001
- 2002
- 2003
- 2005-2015
- 2018
Failing Head Gaskets
The head gaskets in earlier Subaru Outback models are known to have a high failure rate, resulting in coolant leaks and rapid overheating. In such cases, the head gasket has to be replaced as soon as possible.
Affected Model Years:
- 2000
- 2001
- 2002
- 2003
- 2005-2015
- 2018
Leaking Camshaft/Crankshaft Seals
Leaks in the front camshaft and crankshaft seals have also developed over time in certain models. These seals are typically inspected and replaced as necessary during scheduled timing belt maintenance.
Affected Model Years:
- 2000
- 2001
- 2002
- 2003
- 2004
- 2010
- 2012
- 2013
Issues with Engine Oil Consumption
The 2.5 and 3.6 Liter engines have been reported to have issues with oil consumption. Subaru extended the factory warranty and made improvements.
Affected 3.6L Engine Model Years:
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
Affected 2.5L Engine Model Years:
- 2013
- 2014
Fragile Windshields
Some owners have complained of windshields that crack easily, even without any impact. Subaru has extended the warranty on the affected models.
Affected Model Years:
- 2019
- 2020
- 2021
- 2022
Electrical and Network Problems
Subaru Outback owners of the following model years have reported electrical issues such as dead batteries and data communication module (DCM) problems.
Affected Model Years:
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
- 2020
- 2021
- 2022
Defective Airbags
Selected Outback models may have been installed with defective frontal airbag inflators as part of an earlier recall. The inflators have been reported to degrade and explode after long-term exposure to high temperature and humidity. Subaru has issued a recall to replace the affected airbag inflators for free.
Affected Model Years:
- 2003
- 2004
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
Parking Brake Recall
Subaru has also issued a recall for select Outback vehicles with manual transmissions. These models may have a defective electronic parking brake that can cause the vehicle to roll away if the transmission is not in the right gear when parked. Dealers are instructed to have the parking brake actuator replaced free of charge.
Affected Model Years:
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
What Are the Best Model Years for the Subaru Outback?
There are several contenders for the best Subaru Outback year, each cited for their safety features, reliability, and overall value. If you are looking to buy a used Outback, here are some good models to start with.
- 2005
- 2009
- 2017
- 2018
- 2020
FAQ
How many miles will a Subaru Outback last??
It’s not uncommon for a Subaru Outback to last 250,000 miles. However, with good driving habits and regular maintenance, an Outback can reach the 300,000-mile mark with no serious issues.
Where are Subaru Outbacks made?
To meet global demand, Subaru Outback is assembled in facilities in Ota, Japan and Lafayette, Indiana, where the Outback has been in production since 1999. That’s why if you bought a brand new Outback in the US, it will likely have been built in the Hoosier state.