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What are the cons of a Subaru?

While Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, safety, and all-wheel-drive capabilities, there are some potential drawbacks to consider when purchasing a Subaru. In this article, we'll explore the key cons of owning a Subaru.


Higher Maintenance Costs


Subarus are generally more expensive to maintain and repair compared to other mainstream car brands. The boxer engine design and all-wheel-drive system used in Subarus require specialized parts and labor, which can drive up maintenance and repair costs. Additionally, Subaru recommends more frequent maintenance intervals, such as oil changes, which can add to the overall ownership costs.


Fuel Economy Concerns


Subarus, particularly the larger models like the Ascent and Outback, tend to have lower fuel economy ratings compared to similar-sized vehicles from other brands. The all-wheel-drive system and heavier weight of Subarus contribute to their relatively poor gas mileage, which can be a drawback for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency.


Limited Cargo Space


While Subarus are known for their versatility, some models may have less cargo space compared to competitors in the same class. The sloping roofline and design of Subaru vehicles can limit the overall cargo capacity, which may be a concern for those who need to transport larger items or have a growing family.


Resale Value Concerns


Subarus generally have a reputation for excellent reliability and longevity, but this can also lead to lower resale values compared to some other brands. The high demand for used Subarus can help offset this, but overall, Subarus may not hold their value as well as some other vehicles in the long run.


Conclusion


While Subarus offer many benefits, such as all-wheel-drive capability, safety features, and a rugged, reliable design, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Higher maintenance costs, lower fuel economy, limited cargo space, and resale value concerns are all factors that potential Subaru owners should weigh when making their purchasing decision.

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.



Is Subaru a good or bad car?


According to a recent 2021 study from Consumer Reports, out of twenty-eight automakers in the US market, Subaru scores number seven overall in predicted reliability, putting them at the top 25% of the most reliable car brands category.



How long will subarus last?


The longevity of Subaru vehicles can vary based on factors such as maintenance, driving conditions, and overall care. In McKinney and surrounding areas, many Subaru owners report their cars lasting between 200,000 to 300,000 miles, or about 10 to 15 years, without major issues, particularly with regular servicing.



What's better, Toyota or Subaru?


In conclusion, Toyota and Subaru both offer exceptional vehicles with a range of features and capabilities, Subaru stands out as the superior choice for drivers seeking a blend of safety, reliability, versatility, and value.



What is the most reliable car model?


Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models

  • Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
  • Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
  • BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.



What are Subaru's weaknesses?


Weaknesses of Subaru

  • Limited Presence in the Luxury Car Market: Subaru has a limited presence in the luxury car market, which puts it at a disadvantage compared to competitors who offer a broader range of offerings.
  • Limited Product Lineup: Subaru's product lineup is relatively small compared to some of its competitors.



What are the most reliable car brands?


The Scores:

RankBrandPredicted Reliability Score (100-point scale)
1Subaru68
2Lexus65
3Toyota62
4Honda59



How long will a Subaru last?


The longevity of Subaru vehicles can vary based on factors such as maintenance, driving conditions, and overall care. In McKinney and surrounding areas, many Subaru owners report their cars lasting between 200,000 to 300,000 miles, or about 10 to 15 years, without major issues, particularly with regular servicing.



What is the main issue with subarus?


Transmission issues are the most common problem in Subarus, but defective airbags, faulty fuel pumps, weak windshields, and electrical issues are also known to happen. Subarus generally receive high reliability ratings, according to RepairPal. Transmission issues are the most common problem in Subarus.



What are the disadvantages of a Subaru?


There are ample Subaru Legacy pros and cons to consider. The car comes with the best safety technology, standard all-wheel drive, and tons of room in the front and back. However, it also lacks a manual transmission, a seriously underpowered entry engine option, and a troublesome driving attitude.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.