Can Subarus last as long as Toyotas?
Yes — with proper maintenance, Subarus can last as long as Toyotas. Toyotas generally have a longer proven reliability track record, but Subarus can reach high mileages when cared for and driven appropriately.
This article looks at longevity in both brands, the factors that influence how long these cars last, and which models tend to accumulate the highest mileages, with data and reporting current through 2024 and into 2025.
Reliability and longevity: what the data shows
When people talk about a car lasting, they often point to the odds of reaching 200,000 miles or more, maintenance costs over time, and the frequency of major repairs. Independent reliability surveys and owner data consistently place Toyota models near the top for long-term durability, while Subaru models also perform well but show more variance by year and model depending on drivetrain and engine configuration.
Key longevity factors
Longevity depends on how a vehicle is built and how it is cared for. The following factors most influence whether a Subaru or a Toyota will reach a high mileage count.
- Maintenance and service history, including oil changes, timing components, and cooling system care
- Engine and transmission design, including the use of timing chains versus belts and the reliability of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs)
- Drivetrain architecture (AWD in Subarus adds complexity and potential maintenance needs, vs. mainstream front-wheel-drive Toyota platforms)
- Climate and driving duty (daily commuting vs. heavy towing or off-road use)
- Corrosion resistance and body/frame quality in regions with snow and road salt
- Parts availability and shop familiarity with brand-specific quirks
In practice, proactive maintenance, rust protection, and timely repairs are as important as the factory design when aiming for 200,000 miles or more. Toyota's track record has built a broad, economical maintenance ecosystem, while Subaru's performance and AWD appeal can be sustained with attentive care, especially in models known for solid engine reliability.
Models with reputations for longevity
Different models within the two brands have shown stronger long-term performance in owner reporting and reliability surveys. Here is a general guide to models often cited for high-mileage potential as of 2024–2025.
- Toyota: Camry, Corolla, Prius, RAV4, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser are commonly cited in longevity lists for well over 200,000 miles with routine maintenance.
- Subaru: Outback, Forester, and Legacy are frequently mentioned by owners and reviews for accumulating high mileages when properly serviced; Crosstrek is also noted in some long-life owner reports.
Long-term outcomes vary by generation and maintenance; early Subarus with head gasket concerns are a caveat, while later generations have addressed many reliability issues with improved head gaskets and CVTs.
Ownership considerations: maintenance costs and parts availability
Ownership costs and the ease of keeping a car on the road influence longevity. Toyotas often benefit from lower perceived maintenance costs and broad parts availability, while Subarus can incur higher costs for AWD components, head gaskets on older engines, and CVT repairs in certain models. However, availability of independent shops and aftermarket parts for both brands remains strong in North America, helping owners keep vehicles going longer.
In sum, there is no abrupt cliff that separates Subarus from Toyotas in lifespan; the difference lies in model-specific reliability, maintenance discipline, and how the vehicle is used. Buyers aiming for long life should research the year/model's reliability history, verify maintenance records, and plan for preventive maintenance appropriate to the drivetrain (particularly AWD Subarus).
Summary
Subarus can last as long as Toyotas with attentive upkeep, but Toyota has a broader track record of long-term reliability and typically lower maintenance costs. For both brands, a successful path to 200,000 miles or more hinges on consistent service, careful driving, and choosing models with proven durability histories. Those who prioritize longevity should focus on well-maintained examples with complete service records and be mindful of model-year-specific issues, such as Subaru’s earlier head gasket concerns on certain 2.5L engines and CVT reliability in some years, while Toyota's engines and transmissions have earned a reputation for enduring operation when cared for.
