Can a Subaru Outback be lifted?
Yes, a Subaru Outback can be lifted. The Outback is a popular crossover SUV that can be modified to increase its ground clearance and off-road capabilities through a lift kit installation. This article will provide a detailed overview of the process and considerations for lifting a Subaru Outback.
What is a Lift Kit?
A lift kit is a set of components that are installed on a vehicle to increase its ground clearance. Lift kits typically include larger suspension components, such as taller coil springs or lift blocks, as well as potentially larger tires and wheels. The goal of a lift kit is to raise the vehicle's body and chassis, providing more clearance for off-road obstacles and improving the vehicle's approach, departure, and breakover angles.
Can a Subaru Outback be Lifted?
Yes, the Subaru Outback can be lifted, though the process may be more involved than for some other SUVs or trucks. The Outback is built on a unibody platform, which means the body and frame are integrated, rather than having a separate frame like a traditional body-on-frame SUV. This can make the lift kit installation more complex, as the suspension components need to be carefully modified to maintain the vehicle's handling and stability.
How to Lift a Subaru Outback
- Choose a Lift Kit: There are several lift kit options available for the Subaru Outback, ranging from 1-2 inches up to 3-4 inches of lift. The amount of lift you choose will depend on your desired off-road capabilities and the impact on the vehicle's handling and ride quality.
- Install the Lift Kit: Lifting a Subaru Outback typically requires the replacement of the front and rear suspension components, including the coil springs, shocks, and potentially the control arms. This is a complex process that is best performed by a professional mechanic or experienced DIYer.
- Upgrade Tires and Wheels: After installing the lift kit, you may want to consider upgrading to larger tires and wheels to take full advantage of the increased ground clearance. This can further improve the Outback's off-road performance.
- Adjust Alignment: Once the lift kit is installed, the vehicle's alignment will need to be adjusted to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
It's important to note that lifting a Subaru Outback can have some trade-offs, such as a slightly rougher ride, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential issues with the vehicle's electronic stability control and other safety systems. It's crucial to carefully research and select the appropriate lift kit for your Outback and to have the installation performed by a qualified professional.
Which Subaru is most capable off-road?
The Ascent is undeniably the ideal Subaru for families or groups on an off-road adventure. While it is larger in size and has 3 rows of seating that can comfortably accommodate up to 8 passengers, the Ascent moves nimbly and performs just as responsively as its smaller siblings.
Can a Subaru Outback really go off-road?
Subaru Outback: Off-Roading Features
The 2022 Subaru Outback has 8.7 inches of ground clearance-or 9.5 inches on the Wilderness trim-so it can conquer almost any terrain. Plus, you can get front and rear bumper underguards to help protect the underbody of your Outback on your adventures.
Is it a good idea to lift a Subaru Outback?
Generally low risk, if a lifted subaru is what you want. Note that any lift is throwing factory design and geometry out the window, so just plan on different handling characteristics, but it won't be a deathtrap if it's just a standard spacer lift.
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.
Is an Outback high clearance?
With an elevated ground clearance of 9.5 inches and a standard front skid plate, you can take the Outback Wilderness into rougher terrain. The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned for improved approach and departure angles, so you can easily clear larger obstacles.
How many miles will a Subaru Outback last?
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.
What year to avoid a Subaru Outback?
Unlike other brands, you won't find multiple years of the Subaru Outback to avoid. Still, there was one year when things went south for the company, and that was 2013. If you're shopping preowned, you should avoid the 2013 model, and we'll tell you why.
How high can you lift an Outback?
Short Arm Lift Kit
They offer coil spring lift features, plus: Between 2-6 inches of lift thanks to longer front and rear coil arms.
What is the average lifespan of a Subaru Outback?
200,000 to 300,000 miles
So, how long do Subaru Outbacks last? With regular maintenance and responsible driving, Subaru Outbacks typically last 200,000 to 300,000 miles.
What are the disadvantages of a lift kit?
The biggest downside to a lift kit is how it changes the handling and feel of your truck. With a higher center of gravity, you will have to take corners slowly to avoid a rollover. The most important thing is to install the kit properly. If you're doing it yourself, make sure to take your time and research.
