How many miles can you expect to get out of a Subaru?
In general, Subarus can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance; many owners report 250,000 miles or beyond, and some exceed 300,000 miles.
Subaru vehicles are widely regarded for durability thanks to their robust all‑wheel‑drive systems and boxer engines. Longevity, however, depends on the model, drivetrain, driving conditions, and how well the vehicle is cared for over time. This article breaks down typical mileage expectations and the maintenance practices that help you reach high odometer milestones.
Longevity expectations by drivetrain and model
Here is a quick overview of typical mileage expectations across common Subaru configurations when properly maintained.
- Non-turbo 4‑cylinder models with the 2.5L engine (common in Outback, Forester, Legacy, and earlier Impreza) frequently reach 200,000–250,000 miles; with meticulous upkeep, 250,000+ miles is not unusual.
- Turbocharged or more performance‑oriented variants (where applicable, such as certain WRX/Ascent/Forester XT configurations) can also reach 200,000–300,000 miles, but they may require more frequent maintenance due to higher loads and boost components.
- CVT-equipped Subarus (many recent models use CVT transmissions) tend to reach 150,000–200,000 miles for many owners with regular CVT service; some exceed 200,000 miles when fluid changes and related maintenance are performed as recommended.
- All‑wheel‑drive components add long‑term reliability demand, so routine differential and transfer case/service needs should be kept up to date to preserve longevity.
Bottom line: longevity varies by model and maintenance history, but Subarus broadly offer strong long‑term value when cared for properly.
Maintenance practices to maximize mileage
Keeping a Subaru on the road for as long as possible hinges on disciplined maintenance and proactive care. The following checklist highlights practices that correlate with higher odometer milestones.
- Follow the factory maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes with synthetic oil if recommended for your engine, and timely replacements of filters, spark plugs, belts/hoses, and fluids (coolant, brake fluid, transmission/CVT fluid as specified).
- Monitor and service the engine cooling system and head gasket risk, especially in older EJ-series 2.5L engines; address coolant or oil leaks promptly and keep temperatures in the normal range to avoid overheating.
- Stay on top of CVT maintenance and recall/service campaigns; use the recommended transmission fluid and have CVT concerns addressed early to reduce repair risk.
- Maintain tires, brakes, and suspension components; proper alignment and tire maintenance reduce wear on driveline components and improve fuel efficiency and safety.
- Keep up with rust protection in regions with road salt and address any structural rust early to preserve frame integrity and resale value.
Consistent adherence to maintenance schedules and timely addressing of issues are the strongest predictors of achieving high mileage on a Subaru.
Model-specific notes
Model families differ in their long‑term reliability profiles. Some older 2.5L engines had head gasket concerns that required attentive monitoring, while modern FA/FB engines have seen improvements. Turbocharged variants and earlier CVT designs may have different maintenance costs and lifespans compared with naturally aspirated 4‑cyl engines. Always consult your owner's manual for model‑specific service intervals and watch for model‑year trends reported by trusted sources or owner communities.
Summary
Subarus are commonly capable of reaching 200,000 miles or more with steady, proactive maintenance. Many owners push toward 250,000 miles, and some surpass 300,000 miles with diligent care, solid maintenance history, and mindful driving. The key takeaway is that longevity is highly influenced by maintenance practices, model choice, and how the vehicle is used—especially for turbocharged engines and CVT transmissions. If you’re buying a used Subaru, prioritize a thorough inspection of the cooling system, head gasket history (for older 2.5L engines), CVT condition, and overall wear on tires, brakes, and suspension to estimate potential longevity accurately.
