How many miles will a 2007 Subaru Outback last?

Expect roughly 200,000 miles as a typical lifespan for a well-maintained 2007 Outback, with many examples reaching 250,000 miles or more and some pushing past 300,000 under favorable conditions.

Real-world longevity depends on factors such as engine choice, maintenance history, driving conditions, climate, and how quickly issues are addressed. This article examines what drives a 2007 Outback’s mileage, the differences between the two main engine options, and practical steps to maximize lifespan.

What affects how long a 2007 Outback lasts

Several elements influence total mileage, including the care given to the engine and drivetrain, regular maintenance schedules, and how the vehicle is used (highway cruising vs. frequent short trips). Subaru Outbacks from this era are generally robust, but long-term reliability hinges on addressing cooling system wear, head gasket risk on some 2.5L models, and timely replacement of wear-prone parts like timing belts and water pumps.

Engine options and longevity

2.5-liter four-cylinder (EJ25)

The four-cylinder engine is lighter and common in 2007 Outbacks. With diligent maintenance, many 2.5L Outbacks reach 200,000 miles or more. However, this engine has a historical tendency for head gasket issues as mileage grows, so keeping cooling system components in good shape and monitoring for coolant leaks is essential. Regular service can mitigate major failures and extend life toward the 200k–250k mile range.

3.0-liter H6

The optional 3.0-liter flat-six is generally smooth and capable of long life, but it is heavier on fuel and can be more expensive to repair. Longevity can be similar to the 2.5L with proper maintenance, though parts and service costs tend to be higher. Timing belt replacement (or equivalent interval) and periodic engine checks remain important to avoid unscheduled downtime and preserve mileage upside into the 200k–300k mile range.

Maintenance practices to maximize miles

The following maintenance practices are widely cited by owners and technicians as the best ways to push mileage higher and reduce the chance of costly failures.

• Follow the factory maintenance schedule for oil changes, using the recommended oil type and change interval (adjusting for your climate and driving style).


• Replace the timing belt and water pump at the manufacturer's specified interval and inspect related components during every service.


• Maintain the cooling system: coolant flushes, radiator hoses, thermostats, and radiator cap health to prevent overheating and head-gasket stress.


• Regularly inspect and service the transmission fluid, brake fluid, and other fluids; replace filters as recommended.


• Address squeaks, leaks, or warning lights promptly to prevent secondary damage and extend engine life.


• Keep ignition, fuel, and air intake systems clean; replace spark plugs and air filters per schedule to maintain efficient combustion.


• Protect against rust and corrosion with proper undercarriage care, especially in regions with salted roads or humid climates.

Sticking to these maintenance practices can help the Outback reach or exceed the commonly observed 200,000–250,000 mile mark, and in some cases beyond 300,000 miles with diligent care.

Summary

For a 2007 Subaru Outback, the typical life expectancy lies around 200,000 miles with proper upkeep. The two engine options have different maintenance profiles, but both can deliver long service lives if regular maintenance is kept up and early issues are addressed promptly. Real-world longevity hinges on preventative care, attentive cooling system maintenance, and timely component replacements such as timing belts and water pumps. With conscientious ownership, reaching the 250,000–300,000 mile range is within the realm of possibility.

How many miles can a 2007 Subaru Outback last?

200,000 to 300,000 miles
Understanding the Lifespan of a Subaru Outback
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.

Is it worth buying a Subaru with over 200k miles?

You should only consider buying a Subaru with 200k miles if it has a complete maintenance history, has had major components replaced, and passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. While Subarus can last beyond 200k miles, a vehicle at this mileage will have significant wear and tear and is likely to need costly repairs soon.
 
What to look for

• Maintenance records: A well-maintained Subaru is crucial for longevity. Look for consistent service, especially for the timing belt (if applicable), head gaskets, and other engine components. 
• History: An inspection of the vehicle history report is important to understand the car's past. Look for signs of accidents or a history of consistent use. A vehicle with one or two owners is often a better bet. 
• Pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic thoroughly inspect the car, focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, and any other potential failure points at this mileage. 
• Past repairs: Ideally, major repairs like the head gasket, water pump, and transmission should have already been completed. 

Potential issues at 200k miles

• Engine and transmission: These are the most expensive components to replace. Be prepared for potential failures or significant maintenance costs. 
• Suspension and brakes: Components like the suspension, brakes, and exhaust can rust out or wear out, requiring replacement. 
• Other components: Expect a higher likelihood of smaller issues like worn-out seals, bushings, and other small parts that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed. 

When to avoid

• No service history: Without records, it's a high-risk purchase. You won't know how well the car was maintained. 
• Major issues found in inspection: If a pre-purchase inspection reveals any major problems with the engine, transmission, or other core systems, walk away. 
• High number of owners: A car with many owners is more likely to have been poorly maintained or neglected. 

Can a Subaru last 300,000 miles?

On average, a well-maintained Subaru Outback can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles! For perspective, this means if you drive about 12,000 miles per year, your Subaru Outback could easily last 16 to 20 years.

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.