Is the Subaru Outback a reliable car?
The Subaru Outback is generally considered a reliable and dependable vehicle. According to industry reviews and owner surveys, the Outback has a reputation for being a durable, long-lasting car that can withstand the rigors of daily driving and occasional off-road use.
Subaru's Reputation for Reliability
Subaru as a brand is known for producing vehicles that are well-engineered and built to last. The Outback, in particular, has consistently ranked among the most reliable midsize SUVs and crossovers on the market. According to Consumer Reports, Subaru vehicles have above-average reliability ratings, with the Outback scoring well in areas like engine, transmission, and in-car electronics.
Outback's Durability and Longevity
The Subaru Outback is designed to be a rugged, versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions. Many Outback owners report that their vehicles have lasted well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance and care. This speaks to the Outback's overall durability and build quality, which are key factors in determining a car's long-term reliability.
Common Reliability Concerns
While the Outback is generally considered a reliable vehicle, there are a few common issues that owners have reported over the years:
- Occasional problems with the vehicle's electrical system or in-car technology
- Potential issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) on some model years
- Occasional reports of engine or transmission failures, though these are relatively rare
Overall, these issues are relatively minor and can often be addressed through regular maintenance and timely repairs. With proper care, the Subaru Outback can be a highly reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
What is the biggest issue with a Subaru Outback?
A list of some of the most common issues Outback owners have to deal with.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
- Legacy and Outback Headlights Burn Out.
- Melting Dashboards.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems.
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.
- Excessive Oil Consumption.
- Rust and Corrosion Problems.
- Leaky Head Gaskets.
What are the weaknesses of a Subaru Outback?
Some top Subaru Outback problems include weak windshields, poor cooling systems, oxygen sensor failure, excessive oil consumption due to oil leaks, and faulty airbags.
Why does Subaru have a bad reputation?
Issues such as engine problems, failing oxygen sensors, Takata airbag recalls, transmission concerns, and rodent-attractive wiring can affect various Subaru models.
What year does the Subaru Outback have transmission problems?
The Subaru Outback models from 2010 to 2013 may be more likely to have transmission issues. These problems often include rough shifting, slipping gears, and even transmission failure. Another common problem in these years is the torque converter locking up when braking, especially in the 2010 models.
Which year of Subaru Outback is the most reliable?
The Subaru Legacy, known for its special off-road capability and reliable track record, has gained popularity since its introduction in the 1990s. The most reliable Subaru Outback years include 2001, 2007, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2022, and 2024.
How many miles will a Subaru Outback last?
200,000 to 300,000 miles
With regular maintenance and responsible driving, Subaru Outbacks typically last 200,000 to 300,000 miles. Their high-reliability ratings and solid build quality place them among the top contenders in longevity, giving them a 22.3% chance of surpassing 250,000 miles—well above the industry average for SUVs.
What year does Subaru have a bad engine?
The performance-oriented Subaru WRX and WRX STI from 2008 to 2014 unfortunately did not escape their own set of difficulties. These cars were plagued with engine problems. Such problems included bearing failure in the EJ series of engines, leading to a major engine rebuild or replacement.
What mileage do subarus start having problems?
Engine Lifespan: Subaru engines are known for their durability and longevity, with many drivers reporting engines that last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The key to extending the lifespan of your Subaru engine is regular maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, and tune-ups.
Where does the Subaru Outback rank in reliability?
The Subaru Outback Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 10th out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $607 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both fairly average when compared with all other vehicles.
Why are used Subaru outbacks so expensive?
Because Subaru of America's new car supply is the lowest of any automaker, and the used Subaru inventory is also low, a lightly used, low mileage, three to four-year-old Crosstrek, Forester, or Outback prices will remain high.
