Why are subarus so high maintenance?
Subarus are known for their reliability and performance, especially in challenging weather conditions. However, many Subaru owners and mechanics alike have noted that these vehicles can be high maintenance compared to other brands. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this perception and provide insights into how to keep your Subaru running smoothly.
1. Unique Engineering and Design
Subarus are built with distinctive engineering features that set them apart from other vehicles. While these features enhance performance, they also contribute to higher maintenance needs:
- Boxer Engine Design: Subarus use a horizontally opposed "boxer" engine, which provides a lower center of gravity and better balance. However, this design can make certain repairs, such as head gasket replacements, more labor-intensive and costly.
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system is standard across most of their models, offering excellent traction and stability. Maintaining this system requires regular servicing, including differential fluid changes and attention to the drivetrain components.
While these engineering choices make Subarus great for performance and safety, they also demand specialized knowledge and care during maintenance.
2. Common Issues with Subarus
Subarus are prone to a few recurring issues that can increase their maintenance requirements:
- Head Gasket Failures: Older Subaru models, particularly those with the 2.5L engine, are notorious for head gasket problems. Repairs can be expensive and time-consuming.
- Oil Consumption: Some Subaru engines, especially in newer models, have been reported to consume oil at a higher rate than average. This requires owners to check and top off oil levels frequently.
- CVT Transmission Maintenance: Many modern Subarus use a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which requires specific fluid changes and can be costly to repair if issues arise.
Being aware of these common issues can help Subaru owners stay proactive with maintenance and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
3. Importance of Regular Maintenance
Subarus, like any vehicle, require regular maintenance to perform at their best. However, their unique features mean that skipping or delaying maintenance can lead to more significant problems down the road. Key maintenance tasks include:
- Frequent oil changes, especially for models prone to oil consumption.
- Regular inspection and servicing of the all-wheel-drive system.
- Timely replacement of timing belts and other critical components.
Staying on top of these tasks can help extend the life of your Subaru and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.
4. Specialized Knowledge and Tools
Subaru’s unique engineering often requires mechanics to have specialized knowledge and tools. Not all repair shops are equipped to handle Subaru-specific issues, which can limit your options and potentially increase costs. It’s essential to find a trusted mechanic with experience working on Subarus to ensure proper care.
Conclusion
While Subarus are high maintenance compared to some other brands, their unique engineering and performance capabilities make them a favorite among many drivers. By understanding the reasons behind their maintenance needs and staying proactive with regular servicing, you can enjoy the reliability and longevity that Subarus are known for. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in servicing all makes and models, including Subarus, and are here to help you keep your vehicle in top condition. Contact us today for expert advice and quality service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do subarus always leak oil?
Another important reason for Subaru leaks is the valve cover gasket. This gasket can also become deteriorated over time, as the gasket's ability to seal the valve covers can diminish as it shrinks with age and becomes damaged.
Why is Subaru resale value so high?
Kelley Blue Book: Subaru nabbed “Best Resale Value” awards in 2020 and 2021, and models retained around 14% more of their original value compared to other brands. Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports rated Subaru as their #1 pick for best brands of 2022, thanks to exceptional reliability and road test scores.
Why are subarus so expensive to maintain?
Specialized Parts. Some Subaru parts, especially those related to their all-wheel-drive systems and boxer engines, may be more specialized than those found in more common vehicles. As a result, the cost of these parts might be slightly higher, leading to increased maintenance costs.
What is the biggest issue with Subaru?
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.
Why do Subarus burn so much oil?
The allegation is that the piston ring tension isn't quite right, resulting in oil slipping past the rings and getting burned up in the combustion chamber. According to these sources, replacing the piston rings will fix the oil consumption problem.
What year does Subaru have a bad engine?
The performance-oriented Subaru WRX and WRX STI from 2008 to 2014 unfortunately did not escape their own set of difficulties. These cars were plagued with engine problems. Such problems included bearing failure in the EJ series of engines, leading to a major engine rebuild or replacement.
Do subarus last longer than Toyotas?
And, Toyota was awarded the most reliable brand at the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards. Also, Toyota's can last well past 300,000 miles (think of the million-mile Tundra), while Subaru typically lasts around 200,000 miles.
What are Subaru owners called?
Everything else just isn't a Subaru
You may have noticed that Subaru owners are not like other car owners. There is something different about them. They affectionately call their cars "Subies," and can be found bragging about them on a regular basis.
What is the average income of a Subaru owner?
The average household income of a Subaru owner is $88,000, the same as Honda Motor and $10,000 more than Toyota, says Alexander Edwards, president of market researcher Strategic Vision.
How much is a Subaru oil change?
The price of an oil change can vary, depending on whether you drive something like a BRZ or an Impreza. But overall, expect your Subaru oil change to run around $35 to $75. We recommend checking our rotating service specials to save even more on your next visit!
