How much gas does a 2016 Subaru Outback hold?
The 2016 Subaru Outback is equipped with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank (about 70 liters).
Capacity and engine options
The fuel tank capacity remains 18.5 gallons across the 2016 Outback’s US market engine choices, including the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the optional 3.6-liter six-cylinder.
Two engine choices in 2016
In 2016, the Outback offered a 2.5L i4 as the standard engine and an optional 3.6L H6. Both configurations use the same 18.5-gallon tank, meaning the cargo for fuel capacity is consistent regardless of engine choice.
Estimated driving range on a full tank
Using EPA fuel economy figures for the 2016 model year, the following estimates reflect typical ranges on a full 18.5-gallon tank. These are approximate and depend on driving conditions and vehicle maintenance.
- 2.5-liter engine: City about 463 miles; Highway about 611 miles; Combined about 518 miles.
- 3.6-liter engine: City about 370 miles; Highway about 500 miles; Combined about 426 miles.
In practice, your actual range will vary with terrain, load, driving style, climate control usage, and other factors.
Practical considerations
Fuel capacity affects how far you can travel between fills, but real-world range often differs from EPA estimates. If you routinely drive long highway trips, the 2.5L model will typically achieve a higher highway range per tank than the 3.6L variant due to better efficiency, while city driving will favor the smaller engine for its efficiency advantage.
Summary
The 2016 Subaru Outback holds 18.5 gallons (about 70 liters) of gas, a capacity shared by its two main US engines. Estimated ranges on a full tank vary from roughly 370–611 miles depending on engine and driving conditions, with typical combined-range figures around the mid-400s to high-500s miles. Always consider real-world factors when planning fuel stops.
Can I put 87 gas in my Subaru Outback?
Regular fuel: Models such as the Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek run efficiently on regular unleaded or 87-octane fuel. Using higher-octane fuel in these vehicles won't harm the engine, but it doesn't offer any benefit in terms of performance.
How many gallons of gas does a 2016 Outback hold?
18.5 gal.
Fuel & MPG
| EPA combined MPG | 28 MPG |
|---|---|
| Range in miles (city/hwy) | 462.5/610.5 mi. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18.5 gal. |
| CO2 Emissions | 5.1 tons |
How big is the gas tank on a 2016 Subaru?
Fuel tank capacity: 18.5 gal.
What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback 2016?
Common problems for the 2016 Subaru Outback include electrical issues like a dead 12V battery or a freezing infotainment screen, issues with the CVT transmission such as vibration, and problems with the oxygen sensor and brake pedal. Other complaints include weak windshields and potential oil leaks.
This video discusses common problems with the Subaru Outback including CVT issues: 58sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Dec 8, 2022
Electrical
- Dead 12V battery: The battery can die if the car is not driven for about a week.
- In-car electronics: Owners report the display screen freezing or becoming unresponsive and the radio unit needing replacement.
- Intermittent accessory failures: Problems with the blower motor and Bluetooth audio can be caused by a faulty Body Control Module (BCM) or corroded ground connections.
Engine and transmission
- CVT transmission: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration is a known issue.
- Oxygen sensor: Problems with the front oxygen sensor are a common complaint.
- Oil consumption: Some models experience excessive oil consumption, often linked to oil leaks.
This video explains common Subaru Outback problems, including oil leaks: 57s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Sep 13, 2025
Safety and mechanical
- Brake pedal: A recall was issued for concerns with the brake pedal.
- Steering column: A steering column recall was issued for vehicles manufactured between February 29, 2016, and May 6, 2016, due to improperly machined parts that could cause steering issues.
- Airbag: Some models had a recall related to the airbag inflator.
- Muffler baffles: Baffles inside the muffler may come loose.
- Windshield: Some owners report weak windshields prone to cracking.
Key takeaways
- Check for recalls: Verify that any vehicle you are considering has had all applicable recalls addressed, especially those related to the steering column and airbags.
- Consider battery life: Be aware of the potential for the 12V battery to drain quickly and budget for a possible replacement or upgrade.
- Inspect electronics: Look for signs of issues with the infotainment system and blower motor.
- Plan for maintenance: Regular fluid changes are crucial for the CVT transmission, and routine inspections can help identify potential oil leaks early.
