What year are Subaru engines bad?

There isn’t a single year when Subaru engines are universally bad. The most frequently cited trouble years cluster around the late 1990s to early 2000s for EJ-series 2.5-liter engines (notably head gasket failures), plus some reliability concerns with the early-2010s CVT transmissions. Overall, newer engine generations tend to be more reliable, especially the FA/FB family introduced in the 2010s.

Context and reliability patterns

To understand why certain years stand out, it helps to review Subaru’s engine history and how reliability concerns have shifted across generations. This article summarizes the best-known problem windows and what changed over time.

Head gasket era for EJ-series engines (late 1990s to early 2000s)

The EJ-series 2.5-liter engines—used in popular models such as the Impreza, Legacy, Outback, and Forester—are the most frequently referenced trouble spot. The head gasket failures were commonly reported on models built in the late 1990s and into the early 2000s, often around high mileage. Subaru introduced redesigned head gaskets and cooling-system refinements in later years (roughly 2000–2004), which reduced the incidence of failures in subsequent production. The smaller EJ22 2.2-liter engines also had gasket-related concerns on some early models, but less broadly than the 2.5L.

• Most cited problematic window: roughly 1996–2000 for EJ25 2.5L engines.


• Earlier EJ22 and other variants had occasional gasket issues, but not as universally reported as the EJ25.


• Reliability generally improved after design updates around 2000–2004.

Note: Individual experiences vary by model, maintenance history, and miles driven. Regular coolant changes, proper cooling-system maintenance, and timely gasket work can mitigate risk.

Early-2010s CVT and drivetrain considerations

In the early 2010s, Subaru’s use of the Lineartronic CVT in several models drew attention for transmission reliability. Some owners reported problems such as shuddering, slipping, or failures in certain model years (roughly 2010–2014). Subaru responded with recalls, service campaigns, and, in many cases, upgraded CVT components in later models. Oil consumption and other engine-related concerns were also noted by a subset of owners during this period, though these issues did not affect all vehicles.

• Problem windows commonly associated with CVT-equipped models: roughly 2010–2014.


• Engine oil consumption concerns were noted in some 2.0L/2.5L engines in the early 2010s.


• Improvements followed in later model years as Subaru updated transmissions and engine tuning.

As with the gasket issue, timing and maintenance history play a large role. Well-maintained CVTs in later 2010s models tend to fare better than early implementations.

Buying guidance by year and model

If you’re shopping for a used Subaru, the following guidance helps you navigate year-by-year risk factors and plan inspections accordingly. The goal is to flag periods historically associated with higher repair needs and prioritize models with updated designs.

1. For late-1990s EJ25 models (roughly 1996–2000): expect possible head gasket symptoms and plan a thorough inspection for coolant/oil leaks, milky oil, overheating, and compression test results. Prioritize vehicles with documented gasket service or modern gasket upgrades.


2. For early-2000s EJ25 models (roughly 2000–2004): reliability improves, but confirm cooling-system maintenance history and look for signs of prior head gasket work. A professional compression test remains a strong check.


3. For early- to mid-2010s CVT-equipped models (roughly 2010–2014): request complete CVT service history, be attentive to transmission behavior during a test drive, and consider a pre-purchase CVT inspection or a diagnostic scan for transmission fault codes.


4. For mid-2010s onward with FA/FB engines (roughly 2011+ in most markets): these generations are generally more reliable, but verify model-specific recalls and service campaigns, and check for any known issues reported for particular submodels or tunings.


5. Regardless of year, insist on a full service history, a professional inspection, and, if possible, a pre-purchase compression or leak-down test to gauge engine health and potential head-gasket risk.

These steps help buyers weigh risk by year and engine family, while acknowledging that maintenance quality and mileage considerably influence outcomes.

Summary

There isn’t a single “bad” year for Subaru engines. The most widely cited reliability concerns cluster around late-1990s EJ-series 2.5L head gasket failures, with some early-2010s CVT transmissions drawing attention in certain models. Newer engine families (FA/FB) introduced in the 2010s generally offer improved reliability. When evaluating a used Subaru, prioritize the specific engine family and year, review maintenance and recall history, and consider a professional inspection to confirm engine and transmission health. Regular upkeep remains the best defense against age-related issues across any model year.

What is the best year of Subaru to buy used?

The best years for a used Subaru depend on the model, but top recommendations include the 2016+ Forester, 2018+ Crosstrek, 2014+ Outback, 2015+ Legacy, and 2019+ Ascent. For younger buyers or those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the 2016 Impreza is a strong choice. Newer models often have more modern features, while specific older years like the 2016 Forester offer a good balance of modern features and a lower price point. 
Top recommendations by model 
This video discusses Subaru Forester years to avoid and highlights some years that are generally reliable: 1mCar ExpertlyYouTube · Apr 14, 2025

• Outback: 2014-2019 or 2022-2025 are good options. The 2014 model year was a high point for its safety, and recent models offer the latest features. 
• Forester: Look for 2016-2018 for a balance of features and value, or 2020-2024 for the most modern versions. The 2016 Forester is a strong contender as it introduced the standard touchscreen infotainment system and other features found in later models. 
• Crosstrek: Aim for 2018 or newer to get a good balance of modern features and technology. 2020-2022 are considered particularly good years. 
• Legacy: The 2015 model year is a good option for sedan lovers, and newer models like the 2015 and newer Legacy sedan have a strong safety reputation. 
• Ascent: For families, the 2019 and newer Ascent is recommended due to its larger size and family-friendly features. 
• Impreza: The 2016 model is a great choice for those who want a reliable and practical car that can handle challenging conditions. The final year of its fourth generation, it addressed many earlier flaws. 
• WRX: The 2014-2021 WRX models are a good bet for those looking for performance vehicles. 

This video explains why the 2016 Impreza is a reliable choice and highlights its engine and features: 48sCarLandTVYouTube · Apr 16, 2025
Tips for buying used

• Avoid older models with known engine issues: Some older models may have engine or oil issues, and it's best to avoid them if you can. 
• Check the vehicle history: Before buying, always check the vehicle's history report to identify any potential issues. 
• Prioritize maintenance: Look for a vehicle that has been well-maintained. For models with CVTs, ensure that the transmission fluid has been changed on a regular basis. 

What years did Subaru have head gasket issues?

Subaru Head Gasket Problem Years – Second Round

• Impreza 1998 – 2003.
• Forester 1999 – 2004.
• Legacy 1999 – 2004.
• Outback 2000 – 2004.
• Baja 2003 – 2005.

What are the bad years for Subaru?

Some common "bad years" for Subaru include 2015-2019 Outback models for issues like sudden acceleration, windshield cracks, and electrical problems, as well as 2011-2013 Outback models known for excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings. Other problematic years are 1998-2001 Forester for head gasket issues, and 2015 WRX models, which are noted for a fragile manual transmission and engine problems. 
This video discusses the best and worst years for Subaru Outback reliability: 1mcar PROblemsYouTube · Sep 28, 2025
Subaru Outback

• 2015–2019: Prone to sudden acceleration, windshield cracks, and electrical issues like battery drain. 
• 2011–2013: Had significant oil consumption due to a flawed piston ring design. 
• 2010–2014: A period with many issues including airbag defects and transmission problems, notes AGT Europe Automotive Import SA. 

This video discusses the worst year for every Subaru model, including the Outback: 44sMrSubaru1387YouTube · Jul 6, 2025
Subaru WRX

• 2015: This model year is widely considered bad due to a fragile manual transmission and problems with the turbocharged engine, such as bearing failures and excessive oil consumption. 

Subaru Forester

• 1998–2001: The first generation had significant head gasket issues and leaks due to a weak gasket design. 
• 2011–2014: This generation saw issues with engine oil consumption and CVT transmission problems, says a YouTube video. 

Subaru Crosstrek

• 2013 and 2018: These model years should be avoided due to their higher rates of reported issues, according to Jerry.ai. 

Other notable bad years

• 2005–2006 Outback and Legacy: Prone to head gasket failure and expensive external leaks. 
• 2008 and 2012 Impreza: Both years are known for potential engine and transmission problems, says CarParts.com. 
• 2019–2022 Ascent: These years were subject to a recall for a heater terminal failure that could melt the component. 

What years did Subaru have engine problems?

Subaru had significant engine problems during 1996–2010 due to head gasket failures, particularly in the 2.5-liter engine. Other problematic years include 2008–2014 for certain WRX/STI models with bearing issues, and 2011–2015 for various models with excessive oil consumption due to problems with the FB engine's piston rings.
 
Head gasket failures (1996–2010)

• Models affected: Primarily the 2.5-liter engine in models like the Outback, Legacy, and Forester.
• Symptoms: White smoke, coolant leaking into oil, and fluctuating engine temperature.
• Resolution: Subaru addressed this by using multi-layer stainless steel head gaskets and larger head bolts in later models, with fixes becoming more consistent around 2012. 

Bearing and other performance issues (2008–2014)

• Models affected: The performance-oriented WRX and WRX STI. 
• Symptoms: Bearing failure in the EJ series engines, which could lead to major engine rebuilds or replacements. 
• Resolution: A class-action lawsuit alleged that insufficient oil supply to connecting rod bearings contributed to this problem. 

Excessive oil consumption (2011–2015)

• Models affected: Early FB engine models in the Forester (2011–2015), Crosstrek (2013–2015), Impreza (2012–2015), and Legacy/Outback (2013–2014). 
• Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption. 
• Resolution: This was due to a change in piston ring design to improve fuel economy, which was less effective at scraping oil. Subaru has since updated the design, with models from 2011 onwards (Forester), 2012 onwards (Impreza), and 2013 onwards (Legacy/Outback/Crosstrek) seeing improvements.