What is a common problem with subarus?
A common problem reported for Subarus, especially older models with the 2.5-liter EJ-series engine, is head gasket failure, which can lead to coolant leaks, oil contamination, and overheating. Other frequent concerns include oil consumption and CVT transmission issues in some models.
Subarus are valued for their standard all-wheel drive and practicality, but certain generations carry well-documented maintenance challenges. This article outlines the most frequently reported issues, why they occur, and how owners can mitigate risk when buying a used Subaru or maintaining a current one.
Most frequently reported issue: head gasket failures on the EJ-series 2.5L
Below are the main issues widely discussed by owners and service professionals across model years.
- Head gasket failure on the EJ25 2.5L engine (common in late-1990s to mid-2000s models), which can cause coolant leaks, oil contamination, overheating, and, if left unaddressed, potential engine damage.
- Oil consumption and leaks in various 2.5L engines (not universal, but widely reported in early 2000s models), leading to frequent oil top-ups or visible oil leaks.
- CVT transmission issues in certain 2010s models (including shuddering, hesitation, or failure), with reliability that varies by model year and maintenance history.
In practice, these issues do not affect every Subaru, and many owners log long, trouble-free miles. However, the pattern of head gasket vulnerability in older 2.5L engines, paired with oil consumption and CVT-related concerns in later years, has influenced buyer cautions and maintenance planning.
Mitigation and maintenance: how to reduce risk for buyers and owners
If you’re shopping for a used Subaru or trying to prevent trouble in a current one, consider these steps to minimize risk.
- Check service history for head gasket work or engine replacement. If there is no record, plan a thorough pre-purchase inspection and budget for potential gasket work.
- Inspect for coolant leaks around the engine and monitor the coolant reservoir; check the oil for signs of coolant contamination (milky appearance) and look for white exhaust smoke as possible indicators of gasket trouble.
- Monitor oil consumption between oil changes. If you notice unusually rapid oil loss without obvious leaks, factor this into maintenance and ownership costs.
- For CVT-equipped models, test drive to assess transmission behavior. Listen for unusual noises, shuddering, or slipping, and verify maintenance intervals and CVT fluid service history.
- Arrange a pre-purchase inspection with a mechanic experienced in Subarus who can perform compression tests, leak-down tests, and a focused evaluation of the head gasket and CVT where applicable.
By prioritizing documented maintenance and a careful pre-purchase evaluation, buyers can significantly reduce the risk of costly repairs down the line while still enjoying Subaru’s hallmark all-wheel-drive practicality.
Summary
In short, the most commonly cited Subaru issue centers on head gasket failures in older 2.5L EJ-series engines, often accompanied by oil consumption and, in later years, CVT transmission concerns. Regular maintenance, transparent service records, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are the best defenses for buyers and owners. Subarus remain popular for their safety features, AWD capability, and reliability when properly cared for, but awareness of these known patterns helps inform decisions and maintenance planning.
What is the biggest problem with Subarus?
Most common Subaru problems
- Fuel pump failure.
- O2 sensor problems.
- Blown head gaskets.
- Oil leaks.
- Battery draining rapidly.
- Unintended acceleration.
- Cracked windshields.
- Subaru Starlink problems.
What years did Subaru have a bad engine?
Although Subaru has been challenged with engine issues, most of the issues were isolated to a few engines, namely the EJs that were in the Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback and Baja models between 1996 and 2005. The latest Subaru boxer engines are part of the FB series boxer engines.
What is the best year of Subaru to buy?
The best Subaru years depend on the model, but generally, popular and reliable years include the 2014+ Outback, 2016+ Forester, 2018+ Crosstrek, 2015+ Legacy, and 2005-2009 Outback for older models. For newer models, the 2022+ Outback and 2021+ Forester are frequently cited for reliability, and the 2019+ Ascent is a strong choice for families.
This video discusses the best and worst years for the Subaru Outback: 57scar PROblemsYouTube · Sep 28, 2025
Model-specific recommendations
- Outback: 2005-2009 and 2014+ are great used options, with 2014, 2016, 2017, 2021, and 2022 being particularly good years.
- Forester: 2016 and newer are recommended for reliability, while the 2002-2005 and 2008-2009 models are also strong choices.
- Crosstrek: 2018 and newer are considered good for fuel efficiency.
- Legacy: 2015 and newer are recommended, with 2003, 2004, 2007, 2009, and 2014 also being solid options.
- Ascent: 2019 and newer models are a good choice for families.
- Impreza: 2006 and 2014+ are noted as reliable choices.
What to consider
- Reliability varies by year: Some years within a generation had specific issues resolved in later models. For example, issues with older 2.5L engines were more common on some earlier models.
- Newer is often better: Newer models frequently feature updated technology and safety features like Subaru's EyeSight system.
- Check model-specific reviews: Before buying any used car, it's essential to research the specific model and year you are considering to avoid known problem years.
What years did Subaru have transmission problems?
While Subaru has improved its CVTs over the years, certain models are more prone to failures:
- 2010–2013 Subaru Outback & Legacy (First-generation Lineartronic CVT)
- 2013–2017 Subaru Crosstrek (Early FB20 engine models)
- 2014–2018 Subaru Forester (FB25 engine models)
- 2019+ Subaru Ascent (Higher torque load on the CVT)
