What are major service intervals for a Subaru Outback?

Major service intervals for a Subaru Outback are commonly set at 30,000, 60,000, 90,000 and 120,000 miles, with routine oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles in between. Exact items and timing depend on the model year, engine type, and transmission, so always consult your owner's manual or a Subaru dealer for your specific VIN.

Subaru’s maintenance schedule frames service around preventive care rather than calendar dates. The four milestone visits cover key components that wear with time and use—filters, fluids, belts or chains, and the cooling and drivetrain systems—while the Maintenance Minder system helps flag needed services based on driving patterns.

Major service milestones and typical items

Below is a general rundown of what is commonly addressed at each milestone. Exact contents can vary by year and engine, so refer to your manual for your Outback model.

1. 
   30,000 miles (30k) service
   

   Basic routine maintenance is performed to keep the engine and drivetrain in good shape. Expect an engine oil and filter change, tire rotation, brake system inspection, and a check of fluids (coolant, brake, wiper fluid, transmission/transfer case fluids if applicable). The engine air filter and cabin air filter are inspected and replaced as needed, and a general diagnostic check is performed. Belts, hoses, and battery may be inspected for wear.

   
   


2. 
   60,000 miles (60k) service
   

   The 60k service adds items that typically include replacing filters if not done at 30k (engine air filter and cabin air filter), inspecting and topping off fluids, and reviewing cooling system components. Many models also schedule a more thorough transmission/CVT fluid inspection or replacement at this stage, along with a more comprehensive brake-fluid check and a deeper inspection of belts/hoses and the drive system. Spark plugs are commonly monitored for replacement based on engine type and mileage, often around this interval or later. Always verify with the specific schedule for your engine family.

   
   


3. 
   90,000 miles (90k) service
   

   By 90k, more substantial maintenance is common. This can include CVT or automatic transmission fluid service if required by the model, spark plug inspection/replacement (depending on engine design), and cooling system servicing. The timing component—belt or chain—may need attention: timing belts (if your engine uses a belt) are a major item typically addressed around this era, often around 105k miles for belt-driven Subaru engines. If your Outback uses a timing chain, the focus shifts to chain tensioners and related components rather than belt replacement. A thorough inspection of water pump, cooling system, and drive belts is standard practice at this stage.

   
   

Concluding note: the 90k milestone commonly starts to push toward more expansive work, especially on older belt-driven engines and CVT-equipped models. Always confirm with your specific model year and engine variant.

120,000 miles and beyond

At 120,000 miles, many Outbacks enter a phase where major drivetrain and cooling system overhauls are considered, especially for models with timing belts. Expect potential timing-belt replacement (if applicable) and water-pump replacement, CVT fluid service, spark plug replacement if not yet performed, brake-fluid renewal, and a comprehensive inspection of all major systems. Differential or transfer-case fluids (if applicable to AWD variants) may also be serviced. The exact list depends on the precise engine and transmission configuration.

Concluding: because Subaru engines and transmissions have varied designs across generations, a 120k service can range from routine to major, especially if the vehicle has a belt-driven timing system or older CVT. Always follow the VIN-specific schedule from Subaru.

Factors that influence timing and content of service

Driving conditions, climate, maintenance history, and the specific Outback engine (for example, naturally aspirated 2.5L vs. turbo or later CVT configurations) all affect when major services are due. In some models, certain items are required earlier or later, and some tasks may be deferred if a Maintenance Minder signal indicates no immediate need.

Engine type and belt/chain considerations

Subaru uses both timing belts and timing chains depending on the engine family and model year. Belts typically require replacement around the 105,000–110,000-mile range (and often include a water pump at the same time), while chains generally do not have a fixed replacement interval but require periodic inspection of tensioners and guides. Always verify which system your Outback has and follow the manufacturer’s belt/chain schedule for your exact engine code.

Staying on track

To stay current, maintain a service history, keep receipts, and follow the Maintenance Minder prompts. Check your owner's manual for the VIN-specific schedule, and when in doubt, consult a Subaru dealer or trusted independent shop that can access the exact schedule for your vehicle’s year and engine type.

Summary

Subaru Outbacks typically follow major maintenance milestones at 30k, 60k, 90k, and 120k miles, with routine oil changes in between. The precise tasks at each milestone depend on the model year, engine, and transmission (belt vs. chain, CVT, etc.). Always use the official owner’s manual or a dealer service schedule tailored to your VIN to ensure accuracy and protect your vehicle’s reliability and warranty.

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. 

What are the recommended service intervals for a Subaru Outback?

every 6,000 miles
Subaru recommends servicing your Outback every 6,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. Some dealers recommend servicing every six months in certain regions, depending on how often you drive and the local conditions.

What is Subaru Severe service?

A more frequent maintenance schedule, referred to as the Severe maintenance schedule, may be needed depending on road conditions, weather and individual driving habits* , to name a few. See your Warranty & Maintenance Booklet for more details.

When should the timing belt be replaced on a Subaru Outback?

Subaru recommends replacing the timing belt on an Outback every 105,000 miles or seven years, whichever comes first. It is also crucial to replace the timing belt if you notice any signs of wear, such as a ticking noise, stuttering, or engine issues, as a broken timing belt can cause severe engine damage. 
Replacement schedule

• Mileage: 105,000 miles
• Time: Seven years
• Key takeaway: Whichever comes first (mileage or time) 

When to replace sooner

• Your owner's manual may have a different recommendation based on the specific model year. 
• If you see any signs of damage on the belt itself, such as cracking, fraying, or wear. 
• If you hear unusual noises like a high-pitched squeaking or ticking from the engine. 
• If the car is experiencing performance issues like stuttering or stalling. 
• If the "Check Engine" light comes on. 

Important considerations

• It is highly recommended to also replace the tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump at the same time as the timing belt, as these components are often replaced together to prevent future issues. 
• Ignoring the timing belt replacement can lead to catastrophic engine failure, as it synchronizes the engine's internal parts.