What is the most common problem with the 2013 Subaru Outback?
The 2013 Subaru Outback, a popular mid-size crossover SUV, has been praised for its versatility, all-wheel-drive capability, and reliable performance. However, one common issue that has been reported by owners is related to the vehicle's transmission.
Transmission Problems
According to multiple sources, the most common problem with the 2013 Subaru Outback is related to its continuously variable transmission (CVT). Many owners have reported experiencing issues with the CVT, such as hesitation, jerking, or even complete failure of the transmission.
The CVT in the 2013 Outback was designed to provide a smooth and efficient driving experience, but some owners have found that the transmission can be prone to premature wear and tear. This can lead to a range of problems, including:
- Hesitation or delayed response when accelerating
- Jerky or uneven acceleration
- Sudden loss of power or complete transmission failure
- Increased noise and vibration from the transmission
These issues can be particularly frustrating for owners, as the cost of repairing or replacing a failed CVT can be quite high.
Potential Causes and Solutions
The exact causes of the transmission problems in the 2013 Subaru Outback are not entirely clear, but they may be related to a combination of factors, including:
- Design flaws or weaknesses in the CVT system
- Improper maintenance or fluid changes
- Excessive wear and tear due to heavy use or towing
To address these issues, Subaru has issued several technical service bulletins and recalls related to the CVT in the 2013 Outback. Owners who are experiencing transmission problems may be able to have their vehicles repaired or the transmission replaced under warranty, depending on the specific issue and the vehicle's mileage.
In addition, some owners have reported success in addressing transmission issues by having the CVT fluid changed more frequently or by using a higher-quality fluid. However, these solutions may only provide temporary relief, and more extensive repairs may be necessary in some cases.
Is there any recalls on a 2013 Subaru Outback?
The 2013 Subaru Outback has several recalls, including issues with the passenger frontal airbag inflator, a potential steering column disengagement, and a problem with the windshield wiper motor where it may overheat. There was also a recall for certain vehicles with manual transmissions regarding the electronic parking brake, and an automatic transmission recall related to a faulty parking pawl. Owners should use their VIN to check for any open recalls on their specific vehicle.
Key recalls for the 2013 Subaru Outback
- Airbags: A recall was issued for the passenger frontal airbag inflator, which may rupture and cause injury.
- Steering: A recall was issued for 2012-2013 models because the steering column could become disengaged, potentially leading to a loss of steering control.
- Windshield Wipers: Some vehicles may have a windshield wiper motor that could overheat and melt its bottom cover if the wipers are obstructed, such as by snow or ice.
- Electronic Parking Brake: Vehicles with manual transmissions were recalled because the electronic parking brake may not engage properly.
- Automatic Transmission: A recall was issued for vehicles with an automatic transmission due to a faulty parking pawl.
How to check for recalls
- Use the Subaru Safety Recall Checker or the RepairPal recall checker by entering your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Contact a Subaru dealership for information about recalls on your vehicle.
- Subaru will typically send a notification by mail if your vehicle is affected by a safety recall.
What year to avoid a Subaru Outback?
The worst years for Subaru Outback include 2010–2014 and 2017–2020 due to major issues like airbag defects, engine failure, CVT transmission problems, electrical faults, and frequent windshield cracks. These model years show high NHTSA complaint rates and known recalls.
Is a 2013 Subaru Outback a reliable vehicle?
The 2013 Subaru Outback's reliability is mixed, with some owners reporting good long-term experiences while others highlight significant issues with its engine and CVT transmission. Key problems include excessive oil consumption and potential engine failure in 2.5L models, with many engines replaced under warranty. The CVT transmission is also a known weak point, prone to shuddering, slipping, or failure, although Subaru extended warranties for this issue.
You can watch this video to see common customer complaints about the 2013 Subaru Outback and how a mechanic addresses them: 57sMrSubaru1387YouTube · May 17, 2023
Potential issues
- Engine oil consumption: 2.5L engines (FB25) are known to burn a significant amount of oil, often a quart every few thousand miles, and can lead to catastrophic failure if not addressed. This is often due to failed piston rings.
- CVT transmission problems: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a frequent source of complaints due to shuddering, slipping, and a "lugging" or stumbling sensation at a stop.
- Expensive repairs: Both the engine and CVT issues can be very costly to fix, sometimes exceeding the vehicle's value.
- Other reported problems: Owners also report issues with heat shields, leaks, and other minor components.
What to do before buying
- Check the service history: Thoroughly review all maintenance and repair records to see if the engine or transmission has been addressed.
- Confirm warranty work: Check for evidence of Subaru replacing the engine's short block or performing a full fluid change on the CVT, especially if a warranty extension was involved.
- Test drive carefully: Pay close attention to how the engine behaves when coming to a stop, and listen for any unusual noises from the transmission.
- Verify the transmission type: Note that the 2.5L models typically have the CVT, while the 3.6R models have a traditional 5-speed automatic, which is generally considered more reliable.
Which Outback years have transmission problems?
2010 to 2013
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.
