Can a Subaru last 300,000 miles?

Yes. Proper maintenance can enable a Subaru to reach 300,000 miles or more.

Subaru vehicles have a reputation for longevity, especially when owners keep up with routine service, choose the right engine, and drive with care. The question of reaching 300k miles depends on engine design, maintenance history, climate, driving patterns, and timely repairs. This article outlines what tends to extend life, how different engine generations affect durability, and concrete steps to push a Subaru toward the 300,000-mile milestone.

What affects a Subaru’s lifespan

Factors that shape whether a Subaru reaches three hundred thousand miles include model/engine choice, maintenance history, and usage patterns.

Key influences include engine design, maintenance habits, climate, and proactive repairs. Below are the main factors owners should consider.

• Engine family and generation (older EJ-series versus newer FA/FB-series)


• Maintenance history and service quality (regular oil changes, coolant, transmissions)


• Driving conditions (highway miles vs stop-and-go, extreme climates)


• Early repairs and addressing known weak points (head gaskets, oil leaks, transmission wear)


• Availability of parts and access to skilled Subaru technicians

In short, longevity is largely driven by proactive maintenance, use patterns, and timely repairs.

Engine families and reliability

Old vs new designs

Subaru's engine lineup shifted over the decades. The older EJ-series engines are reliable but have well-documented head gasket vulnerabilities and, in many models, used timing belts that require scheduled replacement. The newer FA/FB engines (introduced around the 2010s) use timing chains and benefit from design refinements that improve durability, though they still require routine maintenance and attention to cooling and oil quality to reach high mileage.

How to maximize a Subaru's lifespan

Owners who want to push a Subaru toward 300,000 miles should follow a rigorous maintenance routine tailored to the model and engine type.

1. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil, filters, and fluids. Use the recommended oil grade (often synthetic) and change intervals suited to your driving (roughly every 5,000–7,500 miles for conventional oils, longer for higher-grade synthetics and newer engines).


2. Manage the timing belt/chain thoughtfully. If your engine uses a timing belt (common on older EJ engines), replace it around 90,000–105,000 miles and simultaneously inspect related components such as the water pump and tensioners. If your engine uses a timing chain (FA/FB), have the chain and guides inspected at major services, and replace only when wear is evident or per manual guidelines.


3. Keep the cooling system pristine. Coolant flushes and radiator/thermostat checks every 60,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first) help prevent head gasket failures and overheating, a known risk in some older Subarus.


4. Protect the transmission and AWD components. CVTs and traditional automatics require fluid changes at intervals recommended by Subaru; 60,000 miles is a common benchmark, but follow your owner’s manual. Drive gently and address slipping, shuddering, or unusual noises promptly.


5. Address common wear points proactively. Monitor for oil leaks, exhaust leaks, wheel bearing noise, brake wear, and suspension issues. Early intervention saves components from cascading failures at high mileage.


6. Use quality parts and maintain receipts. Keeping meticulous service records and using OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts can improve longevity and resale value.

With disciplined maintenance and attention to service intervals, a Subaru has a realistic chance of crossing the 300,000-mile mark.

Common high-mileage issues to watch for

As Subarus accumulate miles, certain problems tend to surface. Being aware of these can guide maintenance decisions and prevent costly repairs later.

• Head gasket concerns on older EJ engines can lead to coolant/oil mixing and overheating if not addressed.


• Oil consumption and valvetrain wear in some engines, particularly at higher mileage, may require more frequent checks and repairs.


• Timing belt-related failures on belt-driven engines; if not replaced on schedule, belts can fail catastrophically.


• Automatic transmissions with many miles may show wear signs, including shifting irregularities or slipping; CVTs have their own service needs.


• Cooling-system leaks, radiator/hoses, and thermostat wear that can cause overheating if neglected.

Despite these potential issues, many high-mileage Subarus continue to perform well when addressed early and maintained properly.

Is it worth buying a high-mileage Subaru?

For buyers, a well-documented, well-maintained used Subaru with 150,000–200,000 miles can still offer solid reliability and a comfortable ride, especially if the model has a known history of durability and low rust. The key is to review maintenance records, assess the condition of the engine, transmission, and AWD system, and budget for upcoming maintenance items typical for higher-mileage vehicles.

Summary

In short, a Subaru can and does last 300,000 miles with meticulous care, prudent part replacements, and sound driving habits. The main path to longevity lies in following maintenance schedules, choosing the right engine family for your priorities, and addressing issues early. Modern FA/FB engines and well-maintained older EJ engines show that high-mileage Subarus are not only possible but common for owners who plan ahead and stay vigilant about service needs.

Can a transmission last 300k miles?

Yes, a transmission can last 300,000 miles or more, but this depends heavily on proper maintenance, driving habits, and the specific vehicle. Regular maintenance, like fluid changes, is crucial, while factors such as driving conditions and how the vehicle is used (e.g., towing heavy loads) will also impact its lifespan. 
This video explains how to maintain your car to last 300,000 miles: 1mCar Help CornerYouTube · Jan 15, 2025

• Maintenance is key: Consistently following the manufacturer's service schedule, especially for transmission fluid changes, is the most important factor for extending a transmission's life. Neglecting this can lead to failure much sooner, sometimes by 100,000 miles. 
• Driving conditions matter: Gentle driving habits are much better for transmission longevity. Heavy towing or aggressive driving creates more heat and stress, which can shorten its life. 
• Average vs. maximum lifespan: While the average lifespan for a transmission is often cited between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, reaching 300,000 miles is achievable with excellent care. Some modern, reliable transmissions are even considered capable of lasting over 250,000 miles, according to this YouTube video. 
• Signs of trouble: If you notice any issues, get them checked out immediately. Some warning signs include the check engine light, fluid leaks, sluggish shifting, or unusual noises like clunking, whining, or humming, says Remac Transmission, Inc.. 

This video discusses some reliable engines and transmissions that can last over 200,000 miles: 1mCar Help CornerYouTube · Jun 15, 2025

How many miles do subarus usually last?

A well-maintained Subaru can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles, with some owners reporting higher mileages. Longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance, such as oil changes, fluid checks, and addressing small problems before they become major issues. With proper care, many models can last over 15 years. 
Factors that impact Subaru lifespan

• Maintenance is key: Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and scheduled service are critical for maximizing a Subaru's lifespan. 
• Model year: Some model years might have specific issues. For example, post-2019 Subaru Foresters are often recommended for long-term reliability due to known CVT and oil consumption issues in some earlier models. 
• Driving habits: Vehicles used for mostly long, highway drives tend to have less wear and tear than those used for constant short trips with frequent stops and starts. 
• Engine type: While many Subaru engines are durable, turbo models may sometimes face catastrophic engine failure around the 150,000-mile mark, though many still last longer. 

What to expect at higher mileage

• Routine repairs: At around 150,000 miles, you can expect to need repairs for components like suspension, brakes, and exhaust. 
• Major components: Clutches, wheel bearings, and head gaskets may need to be replaced over the vehicle's lifetime, even with good maintenance. 
• High mileage milestones: Some Subaru models, like the Forester and Outback, have a high probability of reaching 250,000 miles or more with proper care. 

Will a Subaru last 300,000 miles?

The average Subaru Forester lifespan ranges between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, with many well-maintained models exceeding 300,000 miles. That's up to 20 years of reliable service, making it one of the most durable compact SUVs on the market.

Are subarus reliable at high mileage?

The brand is popular among its loyal consumers because of its affordability and range of capabilities. If you keep up with regular maintenance of your Subaru Outback, it should last you for at least 300,000 miles on the road, proving it to be a reliable car.