Is the Subaru Outback made in Japan?
The Outback is not made in Japan. In recent model years, Subaru's North American market Outbacks are assembled in the United States at Subaru of Indiana Automotive in Lafayette, Indiana.
Beyond the question of where it’s built, the larger picture is that Subaru operates multiple plants worldwide, and production choices can vary by market. While Japan remains a core hub for Subaru, the Outback’s manufacturing has centered on the Indiana facility to meet demand across North America and beyond.
Where is the Outback Made?
Here are the main production details for the Outback as of the current model years.
- Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA), Lafayette, Indiana, United States — assembles the Outback for the North American market and for other regions as needed from the U.S. production line.
In practice, the primary production site for the Outback used to be and remains the Indiana plant, which has been responsible for most U.S.- and Canada-sold Outbacks for years. Subaru’s Japan-based facilities produce other models for domestic and some export markets, but the Outback itself is not produced on a dedicated Japan assembly line for the global market.
Japan and Other Markets
In Japan, Subaru’s production emphasizes models built specifically for the domestic market, with vehicles typically sourced from Japan-based plants or imported as needed. The Outback, when available in Japan, is not produced on a separate Japan-only Outback assembly line. Instead, it is generally associated with vehicles produced in the U.S. assembly network or imported as part of regional supply decisions.
What this means for buyers
For buyers in North America, the badge “Made in USA” is standard on most Outbacks, reflecting Indiana manufacturing. For buyers in other regions, availability may depend on regional sourcing, import practices, and model-year allocations, rather than a dedicated Japan-built production line.
Summary
The Subaru Outback is not manufactured in Japan. The current and longstanding production flow centers on the Subaru of Indiana Automotive plant in Lafayette, Indiana, for North American markets, with global supply arrangements that may involve imports or regional allocations. Japan remains a key global hub for other Subaru models, but Outback production is not tied to a Japan-only assembly line.
Is Subaru moving Outback production to Japan?
Production of the Outback is moving to Japan. The changes are being made as SIA transitions to begin U.S. production of the Subaru Forester next month, followed by the Forester Hybrid next spring. “We're excited for what lies ahead,” said Brand.
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Outback?
It's because the lifted models like outback and crosstreks qualify as light trucks and are subject to less stringent fuel efficiency regulations.
What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?
Common problems for the Subaru Outback include weak windshields, excessive oil consumption, and issues with the cooling system and CVT transmission, especially in specific model years. Other frequent complaints involve airbag defects, electrical problems like battery drain, and vibration during acceleration.
You can watch this video to learn about the history of Subaru head gasket issues: 1mMrSubaru1387YouTube · Aug 11, 2024
Engine and powertrain
- Excessive oil consumption: Many models, particularly older 2.5L engines, may burn oil between oil changes due to leaks from seals.
- Cooling system failures: Overheating can lead to blown head gaskets, and the cooling system itself is a common point of failure.
- CVT transmission problems: Some model years are more susceptible to issues like rough shifting or failure.
- Vibration during acceleration: Some owners report a shudder or vibration when accelerating.
- Older head gasket issues: The EJ-series engines (roughly 1997–2012) had an inherent head gasket failure problem, though this was mostly resolved in later models.
Body and electrical
- Weak windshields: The glass is prone to cracking from stress or minor impacts.
- Airbag defects: Some models have a history of airbag problems, leading to recalls.
- Electrical issues: Problems can include unexpected battery drain and issues with the ABS control module.
Other common issues
- Oxygen sensor failure: The front O2 sensor can fail, sometimes leading to a recall.
- Premature brake wear: Some models experience faster-than-average brake wear.
- Suspension wear and tear: Like many vehicles, suspension components will eventually wear out.
Are Subaru outbacks made in Japan?
Where Are Subaru Outbacks Made? Subaru Outback models are made in Japan and Lafayette, Indiana.
