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Subaru Outback
SUV · Gas · 33 versions · owner report
Ranked #12 of 19 midsize SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a strong generational divide.
9 problems reported (2 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentInfotainment system failures (6th gen
2020-2025): Buggy, laggy, unresponsive touchscreen, frequent crashes, screen delamination, connectivity problems with CarPlay/Android Auto. Requires dealership updates or unit replacement.
- Very frequentCVT transmission concerns
Long-term reliability doubts, specific reports of torque converter and clutch pack failures requiring replacement under warranty, fluid migration issues in turbo models (TR690 transmission). "Lifetime fluid" claim is disputed.
- RecurrentDriver's side window regulator failure
Window sticks open, especially in cold/wet weather, fails to close. Known service bulletin for warped channels/regulators.
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentBattery premature failure
Batteries dying around the 3-year mark, potentially linked to start/stop system and parasitic drain. Known service bulletin (07-213-22R) for 2020-2023 models.
- RecurrentOil consumption
Engines, particularly older 4-cylinder models (e.g., 2010-2012), noted for consuming oil. Requires regular level checks. Newer FB engines have cam carrier and oil pan leaks.
- RecurrentTurbo model (XT) fuel economy and drivability
Poor real-world MPG (16-24 MPG reported), significant throttle lag, engine noise/pinging on regular fuel, recommendation to use premium fuel.
- RecurrentWindshield/glass cracking
Noted as a common vulnerability across Subaru models.
- IsolatedInterior material quality issues
Leather/vinyl seat splitting (e.g., on 2018 Limited), hard seats, cheap materials.
- IsolatedSafety system over-sensitivity
Driver monitoring system giving false fatigue warnings, lane assist and pre-collision braking considered annoying or distracting.
The version owners recommend
Consensus is not clear on a single "best" version due to differing powertrain preferences. The 3.6R (H6) engine in older generations (pre-2020) is highlighted as particularly solid and avoids the head gasket issues of older 4-cylinder engines. For newer generations, the Premium trim is mentioned as a value sweet spot when bought used. There is strong advice to avoid the turbocharged (XT) models due to fuel consumption and cost concerns, and to be extremely cautious with 2020-2022 model years due to pervasive infotainment issues.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota RAV4 (and RAV4 Hybrid), Subaru Forester, Subaru Crosstrek, Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot.
Is the Outback right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a strong generational divide. Long-term reliability is a core positive, with many owners reporting vehicles reaching 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance, particularly for non-turbo models. The Outback is consistently praised for its practicality, spacious cargo area (especially as a wagon), comfortable ride, and proven all-wheel-drive system for all-weather and light off-road use. However, significant and very frequent criticism is directed at the infotainment system in the 6th generation (2020-2025 models), described as buggy, laggy, prone to crashes, and suffering from screen delamination. Other recurrent issues include driver's side windows sticking or failing to close, concerns about CVT transmission long-term reliability and specific failures (e.g., torque converter, clutch packs), and higher-than-expected maintenance costs for turbo models. Owner satisfaction is heavily dependent on model year, with specific generations and powertrains carrying known problems.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a uniquely practical, wagon-shaped alternative to mainstream compact SUVs, offering superior cargo length and a lower ride height than taller SUVs like the Forester or RAV4. Considered more reliable than many European wagons (e.g., Volvo, Audi) but potentially less reliable than Toyota counterparts, with a trade-off for standard all-wheel-drive. The turbo models (XT, Onyx XT) are compared to more powerful competitors but criticized for poor real-world fuel economy and premium fuel recommendations. The non-turbo 2.5L engine is viewed as reliable but underpowered. The Outback is frequently seen as a superior choice for camping, road trips, and hauling gear over vehicles like the Crosstrek due to its significant cargo space.
Recommended configurations
All-wheel-drive is standard and universally recommended. For turbo models (XT), using premium fuel (91+ octane) is recommended despite the ability to run on regular, to quiet engine noise and improve throttle response. For long-term ownership, an extended warranty (Subaru Gold Plus) is frequently suggested, especially for models with the CVT transmission. Comprehensive insurance coverage for windshield/glass is strongly advised due to known cracking issues. Meticulous maintenance is emphasized: oil changes every 5,000 miles (instead of the recommended 6,000), regular CVT fluid services (every 30,000-40,000 miles, contrary to "lifetime fluid" claims), and using quality tires and filters. Checking oil level regularly (every 500-1,000 miles) is noted as critical due to some engines consuming oil.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers prioritizing cargo space, all-weather capability, and long-term durability with diligent maintenance. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and those needing to haul gear. NOT recommended for buyers sensitive to infotainment technology flaws, particularly in 2020-2025 models. NOT recommended for those seeking engaging performance or good fuel economy in turbo models. When buying used, a complete maintenance history is essential, especially for CVT service records. For 6th generation models (2020-2025), test the infotainment system thoroughly and check for service bulletins related to battery, window regulators, and infotainment updates. For 2026+ models (7th generation), while the interior and infotainment are redesigned, be aware of potential first-year production issues, though the powertrain is expected to be carry-over. Negotiate aggressively, with reports of significant savings via auto brokers compared to dealership offers.
Remarks
Owner feedback is highly generation-specific. The 2010-2012 Outbacks with the EJ25 engine are associated with head gasket and oil consumption issues, while the post-2013 FB25 engines have different leak points. The 6th generation (2020-2025) is defined by its problematic infotainment system, with software updates offering partial fixes. The new 7th generation (2026+) addresses this with a redesigned interior featuring physical HVAC controls, but it is a first-year model. The consensus is that with strict, proactive maintenance (exceeding factory recommendations), the Outback can be a very reliable long-term vehicle, but neglecting this leads to expensive repairs, particularly with the CVT. Analysis based on approximately 55 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2020. Years to avoid: 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2011Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Subaru Outback years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 26 | 0 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2025 | 162 | 0 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2024 | 97 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2023 | 94 | 2 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2022 | 463 | 4 | visibility/wiper |
| 2021 | 296 | 4 | visibility/wiper |
| 2020 | 897 | 6 | visibility/wiper |
| 2019 | 1,034 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 811 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 917 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 642 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2015 | 509 | 5 | visibility/wiper |
| 2014 | 208 | 10 | air bags |
| 2013 | 297 | 12 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices196 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · power train:driveline:driveshaftcampaign 23V647000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and Impreza vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, resulting in the disconnection of the front end of the driveshaft.
2023 · power train:automatic transmission:park/neutral start interlock switchcampaign 23V755000
Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
2022 · engine and engine cooling:engine:engine control module (ecu/ecm)campaign 22V473000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2022 Outback vehicles. The engine wiring harness may have been damaged, resulting in a loose electrical connection to the engine control unit (ECU).
2022 · visibility:windshieldcampaign 22V712000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2022 Impreza and Outback vehicles. The incorrect paint clearcoat may have been applied, which can cause the windshield to be insufficiently bonded to the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
2022 · power train:automatic transmission:park/neutral start interlock switchcampaign 23V755000
Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
2022 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V227000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
2021 · power train:shift linkage/cable/rodcampaign 21V024000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Outback and Impreza vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) select lever cable nut may not have been tightened properly, allowing the nut to loosen.
2021 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 22V485000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
2021 · power train:automatic transmission:park/neutral start interlock switchcampaign 23V755000
Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
2021 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V227000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
2020 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 20V766000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with "high" grade and "mid" grade multimedia navigation. The August 2020 over-the-air software update may have timed out without completing the installation, corrupting the data, and causing the rearview display to shutoff intermittently. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2020 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 21V955000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 21V587000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2020 · service brakes, hydraulic:pedals and linkagescampaign 19V664000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Outback and Legacy vehicles. The brake pedal mounting bracket may have a missing or insufficiently tightened bolt.
2020 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 22V485000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
181 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: BU
Wilderness 2.4 Turbo Lineartronic
2.4L 4-cylinder · 260 hp · AWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2025–2026
