Are subarus more expensive to repair than Toyota?
Yes. In general, Subarus tend to be more expensive to repair and maintain than Toyotas, though the gap varies by model, year, and how the vehicle is driven.
Across the automotive landscape, Toyota has cultivated a reputation for reliability and lower ongoing maintenance costs, while Subaru’s all‑wheel‑drive systems, engine choices, and some transmission designs can push repair bills higher. The difference isn’t universal: a well‑taken‑care‑for Subaru can cost about the same as an older Toyota, and a high‑mileage Toyota in need of major work can approach Subaru‑level expenses. Buyers should weigh model history, maintenance records, and local labor rates when estimating total ownership costs.
What drives the cost differences between Subaru and Toyota
Below are the main factors that influence repair and maintenance bills across the two brands. The impact of each factor can vary by model and year.
- Drivetrain complexity: Subarus commonly use all-wheel drive (AWD) across much of their lineup, which adds components and potential failure points that can raise parts and labor costs compared with many Toyotas that are front-wheel drive or use AWD less extensively.
- Engine design and known issues: Some older Subaru engines have histories of head gasket and oil‑leak problems that can require costly repairs. Toyota engines are typically very durable, but repairs can still be expensive at high mileage or in certain models.
- Transmission type and reliability: Subaru’s use of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) in several models can lead to higher maintenance and replacement costs when failures occur; many Toyotas use traditional automatics or CVTs with different reliability profiles.
- Parts availability and pricing: Subaru parts can be pricier and fewer independent shops stock AWD components, potentially raising labor costs and repair timelines compared with widely available Toyota parts.
- Model-year and mileage risk: As vehicles age, certain model years within each brand show higher maintenance demands; AWD and CVT components in Subarus can amplify costs in older or high‑mileage examples, while newer Toyotas may benefit from incremental reliability gains.
In short, these factors contribute to a tendency for Subarus to incur higher repair costs overall, but individual outcomes depend on the exact vehicle, its maintenance history, and how it’s used.
What the data says
Industry trackers and consumer cost surveys commonly show Toyota vehicles having lower average repair and maintenance costs compared with Subaru. The difference tends to persist across many models, though there are exceptions—particularly among newer Subaru models with redesigned engines and transmissions. For buyers, model‑ and year‑specific histories often matter more than brand name alone.
- At the brand level, Toyotas typically report lower expected maintenance costs than Subarus over the life of the vehicle.
- Newer Subaru generations have addressed some reliability concerns, but AWD components and CVTs remain notable cost factors in ongoing ownership.
- Used-subaru reliability can vary by model and year, with some common older issues influencing long‑term repair costs.
Ultimately, total ownership cost is driven by a combination of model choice, maintenance discipline, and local labor rates, not brand alone.
Practical guidance for buyers
To manage repair costs, consider the following steps. The list explains strategic actions you can take to minimize maintenance expenses.
- Choose reliable, well-documented models within each brand and avoid high‑mileage examples with spotty service records.
- Review maintenance history carefully, paying attention to timing belt or chain service, CVT maintenance, and AWD system care.
- Ask about CVT health and any recalls or service campaigns related to the transmission or engine.
- Budget for preventive maintenance and potential repairs; consider an extended warranty or a maintenance plan if cost predictability matters to you.
- Get a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to uncover AWD, CVT, head gasket, or other issues before you buy.
These steps can help you reduce the risk of unexpected repairs and keep ownership costs lower, regardless of whether you choose a Subaru or a Toyota.
Subaru model considerations
Subaru models with AWD and turbo engines may carry higher maintenance costs due to specialized parts and potential CVT or turbo‑related repairs. Still, newer Subarus show improvements in reliability, and routine maintenance performed on time can help keep overall costs reasonable.
Toyota model considerations
Toyota’s reliability profile often translates into lower repair bills, especially for compact sedans and mainstream SUVs with solid maintenance histories. However, high‑mileage Toyotas can still incur significant repairs if major systems wear out, so model history and preventive care remain important.
Summary
Across models and generations, Subarus generally require higher repair and maintenance spending than Toyotas, largely due to AWD components and certain transmission designs. Yet the gap is model‑specific and influenced by maintenance discipline, miles, and how the vehicle is used. For the clearest picture, compare model histories, review service records, and factor in local labor costs as you assess total ownership costs.
