Are Subaru Outbacks expensive to service?
Subaru Outbacks are a popular choice among car owners for their reliability, versatility, and all-wheel-drive capability. However, like any vehicle, they require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. If you're considering purchasing a Subaru Outback or already own one, you might be wondering whether servicing this vehicle is particularly expensive. Let’s dive into the details to help you understand the costs associated with maintaining a Subaru Outback.
Factors That Influence Subaru Outback Service Costs
The cost of servicing a Subaru Outback can vary depending on several factors. Here are the key elements that influence the overall expense:
- Age and Mileage: Older Outbacks or those with higher mileage may require more frequent repairs or replacements of worn-out parts.
- Type of Service: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is generally affordable. However, major repairs, like timing belt replacements or transmission work, can be more costly.
- Parts Availability: Subaru parts are widely available, but genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts can be more expensive than aftermarket alternatives.
- Labor Costs: Labor rates vary by location and repair shop. Specialized Subaru mechanics may charge higher rates due to their expertise.
Routine Maintenance Costs
Routine maintenance for a Subaru Outback is typically in line with other vehicles in its class. Here’s a breakdown of common services and their approximate costs:
- Oil Changes: Expect to pay between $50 and $100, depending on whether synthetic oil is used.
- Tire Rotations: Usually costs around $20 to $50.
- Brake Pad Replacement: Costs range from $150 to $300 per axle, depending on the quality of the pads.
- Fluid Replacements: Transmission fluid, coolant, and other fluids may cost $100 to $200 per service.
Major Repairs and Their Costs
While Subaru Outbacks are known for their durability, major repairs can be more expensive. Here are some examples:
- Timing Belt Replacement: Typically required around 100,000 miles and costs between $500 and $1,000.
- Head Gasket Repairs: A known issue in older Subaru models, this repair can cost $1,500 to $2,500.
- Transmission Repairs: Depending on the issue, costs can range from $1,000 to $4,000.
How to Keep Costs Manageable
To minimize the cost of servicing your Subaru Outback, consider the following tips:
- Follow the Maintenance Schedule: Adhering to Subaru’s recommended maintenance schedule can prevent costly repairs down the line.
- Use a Trusted Mechanic: Find a reliable auto repair shop, like Kevin’s Autos, that offers competitive pricing and quality service.
- Consider Aftermarket Parts: For non-critical repairs, aftermarket parts can be a cost-effective alternative to OEM parts.
- Address Issues Early: Don’t ignore warning signs like unusual noises or dashboard lights. Early intervention can save you money.
Conclusion
Subaru Outbacks are not inherently expensive to service compared to other vehicles in their class. Routine maintenance is affordable, and while major repairs can be costly, they are not frequent if the vehicle is well-maintained. By staying proactive with maintenance and choosing a trusted repair shop, you can keep your Subaru Outback running smoothly without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Outback Subaru worth it?
Subaru's Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Although its roofline is lower than a typical SUV's, it can easily haul long items. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder works fine during regular driving around town but can feel strained when quicker speed is needed.
How much does it cost to service a Subaru Outback?
Capped Price Servicing Costs
| Scheduled Service Intervals1 | Outback AWD, Outback AWD Premium, Outback AWD Sport & Outback AWD Touring CVT2 |
|---|---|
| 'B' Service 25,000kms or 24 months | $636.98 |
| 'C' Service 37,500kms or 36 months | $379.36 |
| 'D' Service 50,000kms or 48 months | $888.62 |
| 'E' Service 62,500kms or 60 months | $398.77 |
How often should my Subaru Outback be serviced?
6,000-mile
Subaru Outback: 12,000-Mile Interval
At the 12,000-mile mark, a more comprehensive service check is required, encompassing all the checks from the 6,000-mile interval. Additionally, this service includes inspections of the steering, suspension, braking, and clutch systems.
What is the biggest issue with Subaru?
Most common Subaru problems
- Fuel pump failure.
- O2 sensor problems.
- Blown head gaskets.
- Oil leaks.
- Battery draining rapidly.
- Unintended acceleration.
- Cracked windshields.
- Subaru Starlink problems.
Why is insurance so expensive for a Subaru?
The model and age of your Subaru can affect your insurance rates because different models have different safety ratings, repair costs, and theft rates. Newer or more expensive Subaru models will generally have higher insurance rates due to their higher risk of accidents or theft. 2.
What is the average life of a Subaru Outback?
200,000 to 300,000 miles
With regular maintenance and responsible driving, Subaru Outbacks typically last 200,000 to 300,000 miles. Their high-reliability ratings and solid build quality place them among the top contenders in longevity, giving them a 22.3% chance of surpassing 250,000 miles—well above the industry average for SUVs.
Are Subaru outbacks cheap to repair?
A Subaru Outback is next and will cost about $8,386 for maintenance and repairs during its first ten years of service. This exceeds the industry average for popular SUV models by $136. There is also a 23.97% chance that an Outback will require a major repair during that time.
Why are subarus so expensive to service?
Subarus are more expensive to fix due to a unique boxer engine design and all-wheel-drive system, making access to some components more challenging and increasing labor costs. Additionally, the need for simultaneous tire replacements in AWD vehicles adds to the overall maintenance expense.
Is Subaru Outback expensive to insure?
The average cost to insure a 2021 Subaru Outback with liability only coverage is $77 monthly, while full coverage runs around $167 per month.
What are the weaknesses of 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.
