Will a Subaru last 300,000 miles?

Subarus are known for practical all-wheel-drive capability and durable engineering, leading many drivers to wonder if they can reliably reach 300,000 miles. The short answer: yes, it is possible with proper care, but longevity depends on the model, maintenance history, and how the vehicle is treated over time.

This article examines what influences a Subaru’s long-term durability, including engine design, drivetrain maintenance, climate and road conditions, and smart ownership choices. It also offers practical guidance for maintaining a Subaru toward the 300k milestone and what to look for when buying a high-mileage example.

Engine and generation differences

Subaru’s engine lineup has evolved over the years. Older EJ-series 2.5-liter engines powered many generations and are capable of high mileage, but they carried a historic risk of head-gasket failures as they age. The newer FA/FB-family engines introduced in the 2010s generally employ timing chains rather than belts and include cooling and oil-control improvements that reduce some common failure points. In short, later engine designs tend to be more forgiving at high miles, especially when they’re well maintained.

Head gasket and oil-consumption realities

• Head-gasket concerns are most often cited in older 2.5L EJ engines; modern redesigns and routine maintenance reduce this risk on newer blocks.


• Oil consumption was a notable issue on some 2.5L models from the mid-2000s to early-2010s; staying ahead of oil level checks and addressing consumption early can prevent long-term damage.


• Later FA/FB engines tend to show improved reliability in this area, especially when the cooling system and regular oil changes are kept up.


• Turbocharged variants (WRX/STI) operate under higher stress and typically require stricter maintenance to reach high mileage.

Overall, a high-mileage Subaru is more likely if it uses a newer engine family and has a documented, thorough maintenance history.

Maintenance and care that drive longevity

Long-term success hinges on disciplined maintenance. Below are the core practices that help push subsystems toward 300,000 miles.

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, using the recommended synthetic oil and changing it at the stated intervals (typically about every 5,000–7,500 miles, depending on model and driving conditions).


• Keep the cooling system healthy: regular coolant changes, inspect hoses and the water pump, and address any leaks promptly to prevent overheating.


• Know whether your engine uses a timing belt or timing chain. If a belt, replace it at the recommended interval and replace the water pump and tensioners at the same time to avoid stranded miles later.


• CVT or manual transmission care matters: follow the CVT fluid change schedule if applicable, and address transmission issues early (slipping, unusual noises, or hard shifts).


• Inspect and maintain the fuel system, ignition components, and air filters so the engine breathes cleanly and runs efficiently.


• Brake, tire, and suspension maintenance should not be neglected; proper tires and braking performance influence safe, efficient driving over long distances.


• Prevent rust and corrosion, especially in regions that use road salt; regular underbody washing and rust protection can extend chassis life.

With consistent attention to these areas, many Subarus can surpass the 300,000-mile mark, though results will vary by model and how well the vehicle is cared for.

Model-year considerations and buying guidance

When aiming for very high mileage, choosing the right engine family and ensuring a solid maintenance history are more important than chasing a specific year. In general, later-generation Subarus with updated engine designs and documented service records tend to offer stronger long-term durability. Turbocharged models require more meticulous upkeep, and areas prone to rust or prior overheating should be evaluated carefully before purchase.

Buying high-mileage Subaru: a practical checklist

If you’re considering a Subaru with 200,000 miles or more, use this checklist to assess condition and potential longevity.

• Service history: Look for regular maintenance logs, including oil changes, coolant flushes, brake service, and transmission/CVT fluid changes.


• Head gasket history: Ask about any past head-gasket work, coolant leaks, or oil leaks around the engine; confirm whether any recalls or service campaigns were completed.


• Engine health: Check for smooth idle, no excessive blue smoke on startup or while running, and consistent oil consumption levels.


• Cooling system: Inspect radiator, hoses, thermostat, water pump, and coolant leaks; overheating history is a red flag.


• Transmission/drivetrain: For CVT models, check for slipping or shuddering; for manuals, inspect clutch wear and gear engagement.


• Rust and corrosion: Pay attention to underbody, frame rails, door sills, and wheel arches, especially in areas with salted roads.


• Suspension and steering: Look for worn bushings, leaks in shocks/struts, and alignment issues that could indicate prior neglect.


• Recalls and campaigns: Confirm all open recalls have been addressed; verify VIN with the manufacturer for any completed campaigns.


• Overall condition and usage: Consider the vehicle’s history of towing, heavy loads, or harsh driving that could accelerate wear.

Answering these questions and obtaining a well-documented maintenance history can help you gauge whether a particular high-mileage Subaru is a sensible bet for the long haul.

Summary

A Subaru can definitely reach 300,000 miles with disciplined maintenance, careful model choice, and attentive ownership. Modern Subaru engines (FA/FB families) and well-documented service histories tend to offer the best odds, while older EJ engines and turbocharged variants demand stricter upkeep. Prospective buyers and current owners alike should prioritize regular oil changes, cooling-system care, appropriate belt/chain maintenance, transmission service, and rust prevention. With those steps in place, the 300k-mile milestone is within reach for many Subarus.

Can a Subaru last 300k miles?

With regular maintenance and responsible driving, models like the Subaru Outback and Forester can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. This impressive lifespan is due to Subaru's commitment to quality engineering, including the use of high-caliber materials and advanced safety features.

Is it worth buying a Subaru with over 200k miles?

You should only consider buying a Subaru with 200k miles if it has a complete maintenance history, has had major components replaced, and passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. While Subarus can last beyond 200k miles, a vehicle at this mileage will have significant wear and tear and is likely to need costly repairs soon.
 
What to look for

• Maintenance records: A well-maintained Subaru is crucial for longevity. Look for consistent service, especially for the timing belt (if applicable), head gaskets, and other engine components. 
• History: An inspection of the vehicle history report is important to understand the car's past. Look for signs of accidents or a history of consistent use. A vehicle with one or two owners is often a better bet. 
• Pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic thoroughly inspect the car, focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, and any other potential failure points at this mileage. 
• Past repairs: Ideally, major repairs like the head gasket, water pump, and transmission should have already been completed. 

Potential issues at 200k miles

• Engine and transmission: These are the most expensive components to replace. Be prepared for potential failures or significant maintenance costs. 
• Suspension and brakes: Components like the suspension, brakes, and exhaust can rust out or wear out, requiring replacement. 
• Other components: Expect a higher likelihood of smaller issues like worn-out seals, bushings, and other small parts that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed. 

When to avoid

• No service history: Without records, it's a high-risk purchase. You won't know how well the car was maintained. 
• Major issues found in inspection: If a pre-purchase inspection reveals any major problems with the engine, transmission, or other core systems, walk away. 
• High number of owners: A car with many owners is more likely to have been poorly maintained or neglected. 

How many miles do subarus typically last?

Subarus typically last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles, but this depends on proper maintenance, which includes regular oil changes and fluid checks. Some models, like the Crosstrek, can even exceed 250,000 miles, while high-performance models like the WRX may be closer to 150,000+ miles if they aren't maintained according to their specific schedules. 
Expected mileage by model

• Outback, Forester, and Legacy: Can often exceed 200,000 miles, with many reaching 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper care. 
• Crosstrek: Known to last more than 250,000 miles. 
• Ascent: Can typically last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles. 
• WRX and WRX STI: With strict maintenance, these performance models can last over 150,000 miles. 

Factors that influence longevity

• Regular maintenance: Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule is crucial. This includes routine oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid flushes. 
• Driving habits: Responsible driving habits can help maximize a vehicle's lifespan. 
• Proper care: Addressing minor issues before they become major problems can prevent larger, more costly repairs down the road. 

Can a transmission last 300k miles?

Yes, a transmission can last 300,000 miles or more, but this depends heavily on proper maintenance, driving habits, and the specific vehicle. Regular maintenance, like fluid changes, is crucial, while factors such as driving conditions and how the vehicle is used (e.g., towing heavy loads) will also impact its lifespan. 
This video explains how to maintain your car to last 300,000 miles: 1mCar Help CornerYouTube · Jan 15, 2025

• Maintenance is key: Consistently following the manufacturer's service schedule, especially for transmission fluid changes, is the most important factor for extending a transmission's life. Neglecting this can lead to failure much sooner, sometimes by 100,000 miles. 
• Driving conditions matter: Gentle driving habits are much better for transmission longevity. Heavy towing or aggressive driving creates more heat and stress, which can shorten its life. 
• Average vs. maximum lifespan: While the average lifespan for a transmission is often cited between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, reaching 300,000 miles is achievable with excellent care. Some modern, reliable transmissions are even considered capable of lasting over 250,000 miles, according to this YouTube video. 
• Signs of trouble: If you notice any issues, get them checked out immediately. Some warning signs include the check engine light, fluid leaks, sluggish shifting, or unusual noises like clunking, whining, or humming, says Remac Transmission, Inc.. 

This video discusses some reliable engines and transmissions that can last over 200,000 miles: 1mCar Help CornerYouTube · Jun 15, 2025