Do subarus have skid plates?
Yes. Most modern Subarus feature some form of engine underbody protection — such as an engine undertray or front skid plate — on many trims, especially crossovers and off-road-oriented versions. The level of protection varies by model and year.
Overview: How Subaru protects its undercarriage
Subaru uses a combination of plastic engine undercovers, lower splash shields, and, on more rugged trims, metal skid plates to protect critical components from rocks, debris, and rough terrain. Availability varies by model year and trim, so buyers planning off-road use should verify the specific build sheet or ask a dealer.
Model-by-model guide
Crosstrek
Small crossover with light off-road capability; most years have an engine undertray and lower underbody shield as standard, with additional protection on more rugged trims.
- Engine undertray and lower underbody panels are common on recent Crosstrek models, helping shield the oil pan and transmission from rocks and debris.
- Higher or off-road–oriented trims may include additional front-end protection, reinforcing the undercarriage for rough terrain.
For exact year-by-year details and trim coverage, check Subaru's official specifications or the owner's manual. This is especially important if you intend frequent off-road use.
Forester
The Forester has long been designed with practical protection in mind; most recent models include an engine undercover across trims to reduce aerodynamic drag and shield critical components. Rugged variants add more underbody protection.
- Engine undertray and lower underbody shields are standard on many current Forester trims.
- Rugged Wilderness and similar off-road-oriented variants generally feature reinforced front skid plates and additional underbody protection.
Again, verify on the exact year/trim, since standard equipment can shift with redesigns or mid-model updates.
Outback
The Outback blends comfort with some rugged capability; most recent Outback configurations include engine undercovers and underbody protection. The Wilderness edition and other off-road-focused trims add a reinforced front skid plate for tougher conditions.
- Underbody paneling and engine protection are common across many trims.
- Outback Wilderness and similar trims include a steel front skid plate for extra protection on rocky trails.
Consult the build sheet for the exact trim you’re considering to confirm the level of protection.
Ascent
Ascent, Subaru’s three-row SUV, carries adequate underbody protection as part of its standard equipment across typical trims. Some variants include extra protection for more challenging terrain.
- Engine undercover and protective panels are standard on current Ascent trims.
- Higher trims or optional off-road packages may include additional skid plates or reinforced underbody protection.
Always check the specific model year details, especially for used or older vehicles.
Other Subaru models
Sedans and sports cars in the lineup tend to have lighter underbody protection focused on splash shields rather than heavy skid plates. For example, the BRZ uses a standard engine splash shield rather than a heavy, off-road–style skid plate. Always review the specific model/year when planning off-road use.
- BRZ and similar vehicles typically employ an engine splash shield; not designed for heavy off-road scraping, but protective for daily driving.
- Legacy, Impreza, and other models generally rely on underbody shields to protect vital components; checks are advised for off-road plans.
For reliable protection in off-road scenarios, consider aftermarket skid plates or factory-equipped rugged trims, and verify compatibility with your model/year.
How to verify for your model/year
To ensure your Subaru has the skid plate configuration you want, consult:
- Owner’s manual or factory specifications for your exact year and trim.
- Official Subaru product pages and brochures for the model in question.
- A dealership or Subaru service advisor who can confirm the underbody protection layout for the vehicle you’re considering.
Many buyers also review third-party forums and reviews that document underbody protection setups on specific model years and trims.
Conclusion
In summary, Subarus typically include some form of engine underbody protection, with more substantial skid plates on off-road–oriented trims like the Wilderness variants. The level of protection varies by model and year, so if you need heavy-duty protection for frequent off-roading, confirm the exact trim and year or look at aftermarket options.
Summary
Most recent Subarus feature a protective undertray or skid plate in at least some form, with the level increasing on rugged trims and packages. Always check the exact model/year to confirm the configuration before buying or modifying for off-road use.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?
Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, which had widespread CVT, oil consumption, and oil leak issues, and 2018, which had recalls and reliability concerns. Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding the 2005–2007 models due to head gasket problems and the 2020 model, which had electrical and windshield issues.
Years to avoid
- 2010–2014: These models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues (CVT), oil consumption, and general reliability problems. The 2010 model specifically had issues with the torque converter locking up.
- 2018: This year saw recalls and owner complaints related to oil consumption, exhaust components, and electrical issues.
- 2005–2007: These models are known for head gasket failures, which can cause coolant and oil leaks.
- 2020: This model year is associated with a high number of electrical problems, including dead batteries and stalling, as well as issues with the windshield cracking from small chips.
Other potential problem years
- 2013: Frequently mentioned for oil consumption issues.
- 2015: Some reports list it with electrical and engine problems.
- 2017: Reliability issues were noted.
Do subarus have limited slip differentials?
The front axle offers a Helical limited slip differential while the rear holds a Torsen limited slip differential.
Do Subarus have a tracking device?
With a STARLINK connected services-equipped vehicle and the MySubaru app, you can lock/unlock your vehicle remotely, access your horn & lights, or even locate your vehicle on a map, all from your desktop, tablet or mobile device. The new MySubaru app is required for Starlink Remote Services access.
What cars have skid plates?
Skid plates may be used on off-road vehicles, motorcycles and lowered vehicles to prevent damage to components in the vehicle underbody. Fake skid plates are also added to vehicles for an off-road look.
