Which is more reliable, Subaru or Toyota?

Generally, Toyota has the stronger reliability track record, while Subaru is competitive but slightly behind on average.

Reliability in the automotive world depends on long-term durability, defect frequency, maintenance costs, and how models are used in real life. Independent surveys and owner feedback form the backbone of comparisons between Subaru and Toyota, but results can vary by model year and by how diligently a vehicle is maintained. The sections below lay out the big-picture signals and the notable year-to-year caveats buyers should know.

How reliability is measured across brands

Industry surveys gather predicted durability, reported problems, and repair costs to compare brands. The following points summarize the dominant signals from major sources.

• Consumer Reports consistently places Toyota at the top tier for predicted reliability among mainstream brands; Subaru performs well, but generally trails Toyota when looking at the full lineup.


• J.D. Power reliability studies often rate Toyota highly for durability and low defect rates; Subaru is solid and respected, but it does not regularly occupy the very top of the reliability leaderboard.


• Across multiple independent assessments and historical data, Toyota’s reliability edge tends to be broader and more durable over time, while Subaru excels in reliability within its strongest segments, particularly AWD-ready models.

Taken together, these sources indicate a broad reliability edge for Toyota, with Subaru delivering strong reliability in its core models and conditions where all-wheel drive and rugged utility matter most.

Model-level reliability trends

Brand-wide patterns are useful, but real-world reliability is highly dependent on the specific model and year. Here are the broad trends for Subaru and Toyota across popular segments.

Subaru: strengths and caveats

• Strengths: The Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek have earned a strong reputation for reliability and owner satisfaction in recent years, with consistent performance in daily driving and adverse conditions thanks to AWD.


• Caveats: Older 2.5-liter engine designs historically carried head-gasket risk; some engines have reported oil-consumption concerns in certain model years; CVT reliability can vary by year and maintenance history.


• Maintenance pattern: Regular, proactive maintenance tends to keep Subarus performing well; parts availability and knowledgeable service networks are generally solid.

In short, Subaru’s reliability is robust in its best-selling crossover/SUV lines, but buyers should check model-year histories and maintenance records to avoid known issues.

Toyota: strengths and caveats

• Strengths: Corolla, Camry, RAV4, and Prius families are renowned for longevity, low surprise repairs, and strong resale value; the engines and transmissions are historically resilient when serviced properly.


• Caveats: Some recent models have experienced infotainment/software glitches or recall campaigns; hybrid systems require attentive maintenance of battery/inverter components; higher-trim SUVs can incur higher ownership costs due to features.


• Maintenance pattern: Toyota’s extensive dealer network and parts availability support predictable maintenance and long-term durability.

Overall, Toyota’s reliability is broad-based and deeply entrenched across segments, making it a consistent choice for long-term ownership.

Buying considerations: what to look for regardless of badge

To maximize reliability, focus on how the specific vehicle was used and maintained, in addition to the brand’s general track record.

• Check comprehensive maintenance history, especially for critical systems like the engine, transmission (including CVTs in Subaru), brakes, and cooling system.


• Review recall and service bulletin status for the exact model year you’re considering, as some years carry more recalls or common fixes than others.


• Consider total cost of ownership, including expected maintenance, parts costs, insurance, and fuel economy, since reliability often correlates with lower unexpected repair expenses over time.

With careful model-year research and a thorough pre-purchase inspection, either brand can deliver durable ownership. The choice often comes down to how you value all-wheel drive capability, interior practicality, and potential maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle.

Summary

Across the spectrum, Toyota tends to be the more reliable brand overall, especially for long-term durability and lower unexpected repair rates. Subaru remains highly reliable within its strongest segments—most notably its all-wheel-drive crossovers—but shows more year-to-year variation and model-specific caveats. For many buyers, the prudent path is to select a well-regarded model from either brand with a clean maintenance history and a solid pre-purchase inspection. In the end, disciplined maintenance and model-year specifics often trump badge prestige when it comes to reliability.

Did Subaru beat Toyota in reliability?

Study. And now this is not a scientific. Study this is not uh a mass of culminated. Data uh from across the country. And across all brands it's more of a questionnaire.

How long do subarus last vs Toyota?

Toyota vehicles are generally considered to last longer, with a strong reputation for high mileage, while Subaru is a close second but has a reputation for more expensive maintenance. Toyota's longevity is attributed to its simple, durable engine and transmission designs, whereas Subaru's standard all-wheel drive, while excellent for traction, can add complexity and cost. However, some recent data from Consumer Reports ranked Subaru as the most reliable brand in 2025, surpassing Toyota.
 
Toyota

• Pros: Renowned for extreme longevity, with many models easily lasting over 300,000 miles. They have a reputation for consistency and fewer major issues. 
• Cons: Their AWD systems are not standard on all models, unlike Subaru, and maintenance costs are generally lower due to less frequent repairs. 
• Maintenance: Cheaper and easier to maintain due to the widespread familiarity with their simpler engines and transmissions. 

Subaru

• Pros: Recognized for strong reliability, with some recent rankings placing it ahead of Toyota. Many models are known for lasting well beyond 200,000 miles. 
• Cons: Maintenance and repair costs are generally higher than Toyota's. Common issues can include head gasket failure and CVT transmission problems in some models. 
• Maintenance: Costs are slightly higher due to the complexity of their standard all-wheel drive system. 

Which one is right for you?

• For maximum longevity and lower long-term repair costs: Choose Toyota. Their proven, simple designs lead to a more consistent and cheaper ownership experience over the long haul. 
• If you prioritize standard all-wheel drive and recent reliability ratings: Consider Subaru. Subaru's standard AWD is a significant advantage for traction and capability, and recent reports show it competing with, and even surpassing, Toyota in reliability scores. 

Which car is better, Toyota or Subaru?

Neither brand is universally "better" as the choice depends on individual priorities; Toyota is often favored for overall reliability and fuel efficiency, especially in hybrid models, while Subaru is preferred for standard all-wheel drive, off-road capability, and standard safety features. Toyota typically leads in long-term reliability ratings, while Subaru excels in performance features like its Boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive.
 
Choose Toyota if:

• Maximum reliability is your top priority: Toyota has a long-standing reputation for being the gold standard in reliability and lower maintenance costs. 
• Fuel efficiency is most important: Toyota offers several highly efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. 
• You need a balance of practicality and modern features: Toyota's popular models, like the RAV4, are known for their spacious interiors and tech. 

Choose Subaru if:

• You need all-wheel drive: Subaru provides standard all-wheel drive on all its models, which is ideal for snow, rain, or off-road conditions. 
• Off-road capability is a must: Subaru vehicles often have higher ground clearance and a rugged design built for adventure. 
• Standard safety features are important: Subaru includes its EyeSight safety tech as a standard feature across its lineup. 

Consider the following when comparing:

• Older vs. newer models: While newer Subaru models have addressed issues like oil consumption found in some older models, older Subaru engines (1996-2004) were known for head gasket problems. 
• Maintenance costs: Toyota's long-term maintenance costs are often lower than Subaru's, though both are considered reliable brands. 

Are subarus more expensive to maintain than Toyotas?

Yes, Subarus are generally more expensive to repair than Toyotas, with average annual maintenance and repair costs for Subarus being higher than for Toyotas. This is due to factors like generally lower reliability for Subarus and more complex or labor-intensive repairs for certain Subaru models, particularly those with boxer engines. Toyota parts are also often cheaper, and more mechanics are familiar with them. 
Factors contributing to higher Subaru repair costs

• Lower reliability: Subaru has a lower average reliability score than Toyota. 
• Higher annual costs: CarEdge estimates higher average annual costs for Subarus ($617) compared to Toyota ($441). 
• More complex engines: Subaru's boxer engines can be more time-consuming and costly to perform maintenance on, such as oil changes and spark plug replacements. 
• Drivetrain components: Subaru's all-wheel drive system can lead to more frequent wear on parts like CV axles and wheel bearings, as well as the cost of replacing four tires at once. 
• Costly major repairs: Some older Subaru models have known issues, such as head gasket problems around 100,000 miles. 

Why Toyota repairs are often less expensive

• Higher reliability: Toyota vehicles generally have lower repair frequency and severity. 
• More common parts: Toyota parts are widely available and less expensive. 
• Widespread familiarity: More mechanics are familiar with repairing Toyotas, which can lead to lower labor costs. 
• Simpler design: Many Toyota models are front-wheel drive, which reduces the number of drivetrain components that require maintenance.