Are Subarus difficult to maintain?
Subarus are generally considered to be reliable and well-engineered vehicles, but they do require regular maintenance to keep them running at their best. While Subarus may not be the most difficult cars to maintain, they do have some unique features and requirements that owners should be aware of.
Maintenance Considerations for Subarus
Subarus are known for their all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems, which are a key part of the brand's identity and performance. However, this AWD system does require some additional maintenance compared to front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Subaru owners need to be diligent about checking and replacing the transmission fluid, differential fluid, and other AWD-related components on a regular schedule.
Another maintenance consideration for Subarus is their use of a boxer engine, which is a unique engine design that positions the cylinders horizontally rather than vertically. This design can make some maintenance tasks, such as changing the spark plugs, a bit more challenging than on a traditional inline or V-shaped engine.
Common Maintenance Tasks for Subarus
- Regular oil changes (every 3,000-5,000 miles)
- Transmission fluid changes (every 30,000-60,000 miles)
- Differential fluid changes (every 30,000-60,000 miles)
- Spark plug replacement (every 60,000-100,000 miles)
- Brake pad and rotor replacement (every 30,000-50,000 miles)
- Tire rotation and alignment (every 5,000-7,500 miles)
While these maintenance tasks may require a bit more attention than on some other vehicle makes, they are generally not overly difficult or time-consuming for a skilled mechanic or DIY-inclined owner. Proper maintenance is key to keeping a Subaru running smoothly and reliably for many years.
Conclusion
In summary, Subarus are not considered to be particularly difficult to maintain, but they do have some unique requirements due to their AWD systems and boxer engine design. With regular, diligent maintenance, Subaru owners can keep their vehicles running at their best and enjoy the brand's renowned reliability and performance.
What is Subarus most common problem?
Subaru's most common problem: transmission failure
Transmission slipping: If your Subaru is shuddering when you accelerate, you might need to replace a solenoid (wire coil) in the engine.
Can a regular mechanic work on a Subaru?
A: No, servicing your vehicle at an authorized Subaru dealership like Norm Reeves Subaru ensures that all work is performed according to manufacturer standards, keeping your warranty intact.
Is Subaru a high maintenance car?
Most Subaru owners spend between $600 and $700 per year on basic maintenance. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, air filter replacements, and fluid top-offs.
What are the downsides of owning a Subaru?
Common cons for Subaru include issues with transmission (especially CVTs), excessive oil consumption, and problems with head gaskets on older models. Other drawbacks can include lower fuel efficiency compared to some competitors, a reputation for weak interior quality and materials, potential electrical issues, and some complaints about infotainment systems.
This video discusses several potential issues with Subaru vehicles, including transmission problems: 56sMrSubaru1387YouTube · Feb 2, 2025
Engine and transmission
- Oil Consumption: Many Subaru engines, particularly turbocharged ones, can have issues with excessive oil consumption.
- Head Gasket Failure: While mostly an issue with older models (pre-2012), head gasket failure remains a known potential problem that can lead to oil or coolant leaks.
- CVT Transmission Issues: Subaru's continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) have a history of problems, with some models experiencing costly failures, overheating, or other issues.
- Engine Stalling/Overheating: Some models have been associated with stalling or overheating problems.
Interior and technology
- Interior Quality: Some owners report that the interior materials feel cheap, with hard plastics and flimsy trim, and that road noise can be a significant issue.
- Infotainment System: The Subaru Starlink infotainment system has been criticized for being difficult to use.
Other issues
- Cracked Windshields: Some owners report a tendency for their Subaru windshields to crack prematurely.
- Fuel Efficiency: Subaru vehicles are not always the most fuel-efficient, especially when compared to some competitors.
- Electrical Problems: There are various reports of electrical problems, such as issues with the fuel pump or light switches.
