How many miles is too many for a Subaru Outback?

There isn’t a fixed mileage cap for a Subaru Outback. With careful maintenance, Outbacks commonly reach 200,000 miles and many make it to 250,000 miles or more. The real limit is the car’s condition and the ongoing cost of keeping it on the road.

Distance is not destiny: what “too many” really means

Miles are a rough signal, not a verdict. Two Outbacks with the same odometer can age very differently depending on service history, climate, driving habits, and prior repairs. A well-documented high-mileage example with no major current issues can be a solid buy, while a lower-mileage car with patchy records may hide costly problems.

Engine and drivetrain realities to know

Engine variants and common concerns

Outbacks have used several engines across generations. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder is durable but has a well-known tendency toward oil consumption and head-gasket issues as it ages. The 3.6-liter flat-six is smoother and can handle high mileage, but it costs more to maintain and fuel. Newer generations have improvements in design and reliability, but maintenance history remains the deciding factor.

Transmission and drive-train health

The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) used in many Outbacks requires regular maintenance. Neglect can lead to shuddering, slipping, or failure, especially at higher mileages. Expect to budget for CVT service or potential replacement if you’re evaluating an older, high-mileage example.

Maintenance is the best predictor

The single most reliable predictor of long life is thorough, timely maintenance. Documented service history, consistent oil changes with the appropriate grade, coolant and transmission-fluid upkeep, and repairs addressing known weak points dramatically improve the odds of reaching and exceeding 200,000 miles.

Buying guidance for high-mileage Outbacks

If you’re shopping for a high-mileage Outback, start with the service history, request a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic, and pay close attention to engine compression, oil and coolant leaks, and CVT behavior during a test drive. Be prepared for near-term maintenance such as head-gasket work, CVT servicing, or cooling-system replacements depending on the vehicle’s age and mileage.

Bottom line

The odometer is not the final judge. With proper care, Outbacks routinely reach 200,000 miles or more, and many survive well into the 250,000–300,000 mile range. The best choice depends on the vehicle’s current condition, complete maintenance records, and the anticipated cost of upcoming repairs.

Summary

There is no universal mileage cutoff for a Subaru Outback. Longevity hinges on maintenance history, model year, and how the car has been cared for. High-mileage Outbacks can be dependable with diligent servicing, but buyers should verify records, conduct a thorough inspection, and be ready for ongoing maintenance costs as the car ages.

How many miles does a Subaru Outback usually last?

200,000 to 300,000 miles
When cared for properly, the Outback can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles without significant issues. The model's longevity rating is so impressive that it ranks among the top 25 vehicles most likely to surpass the quarter-million-mile mark, with a 22.3% chance of doing so.

What year to avoid a Subaru Outback?

Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, primarily due to transmission, oil consumption, and electrical issues, and the 2017–2020 model years for problems like windshield cracking, oil consumption, and acceleration issues. Other problematic years include some earlier models (pre-2005) known for head gasket failures and later models like the 2013 with high complaint volumes and the 2020 with infotainment and electrical issues. 
2010–2014 

• Transmission problems: This range, especially the 2.5L models, often experiences issues with the CVT transmission, including rough shifting, slipping, and failure. 
• Oil consumption: A flaw in the piston ring design caused excessive oil burning, which could lead to engine damage if not caught early. 
• Other issues: Some models had problems with torque converters, poor subframe quality (especially in northern climates), and cheap interiors. 

2017–2020 

• Windshield cracking: Spontaneous and rapid windshield cracks are a common complaint, sometimes expanding from a small chip. 
• Sudden acceleration: Some models experienced unexpected acceleration without warning, possibly related to a brake override issue. 
• Electrical problems: This range saw electrical issues like battery drain and infotainment system problems, especially in 2020 models. 

Other years

• 2013: This model year frequently appears on lists of problematic years due to a mix of the issues mentioned above. 
• 2015: Has a high number of owner complaints, particularly regarding electrical and engine issues. 
• 2020: Has a high number of owner complaints, particularly regarding electrical issues, and windshield cracks. 
• Pre-2005: Early models with the EJ253 engine are known for costly head gasket and coolant leak failures. 

What mileage do subarus start having problems?

Most Subarus will have no problem making it to 100k miles and beyond without major repair needed. Don't confuse major repairs with maintenance, though. You will need to replace your brakes and do some other maintenance work in that time, as you would with any car.

Are subarus reliable after 100k miles?

Yes, Subarus can be reliable after 100k miles, but it depends heavily on proper and consistent maintenance. Common issues like head gasket leaks in older models (EJ engines) are known to occur around this mileage, but addressing these with updated parts can allow the engine to last much longer. Owners can also expect normal wear-and-tear on other components like suspension and brakes, so budgeting for repairs and following the recommended 100k-mile service is crucial. 
Key factors for post-100k mile reliability

• Proper maintenance is essential: Following the maintenance schedule, especially for oil changes, fluid checks, and spark plug replacement at the 100k-mile mark, is critical for longevity. 
• Head gasket issues: Older Subaru engines (EJ) have a known issue with head gaskets failing around 100k-130k miles. Replacing them with updated kits can be a necessary and worthwhile repair that enables the engine to last much longer. 
• Newer models: Newer Subaru models with FB engines have timing chains instead of belts and don't have the same head gasket issues, but they may require a significant engine reseal around 150k miles. 
• Other potential wear and tear: At this mileage, other parts are likely to need attention. Expect to address items such as brakes, suspension components (struts, wheel bearings), and possibly a water pump. 
• CVT transmission: Some early CVTs in certain models have had issues, so it's wise to check the history of a vehicle you are considering buying. 

What to do for a reliable post-100k mile Subaru

• Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle to identify any potential issues before you buy. 
• Check maintenance records: Look for evidence of consistent and timely maintenance, as this is the biggest factor in a Subaru's long-term reliability. 
• Perform the 100k-mile service: Ensure all recommended services, including replacing spark plugs and changing fluids, have been completed. 
• Be prepared for potential repairs: Even with good maintenance, it's wise to budget for future repairs on items that have a typical lifespan around 100k miles, such as suspension parts or a timing belt.