WORST Subaru Outback Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

If you’re thinking about buying a Subaru Outback, it’s important to know that some models have had significant issues.

The 2013, 2014, 2017, 2019, and 2010 are the years to avoid. These models are known for problems like using too much oil, cracked windshields, and unreliable transmissions.

These issues can lead to higher maintenance and repair costs.

Want to know more about the specific problems in these models? Let’s take a closer look.

Key Takeaways

• Avoid the 2013 and 2014 Subaru Outbacks because they use too much oil and have transmission problems.
• The 2006 model has major issues with the turbocharger, head gasket, and transmission.
• The 2010 Outback has problems with piston rings, vibrations, and weak windshields.
• Models from 2015 to 2018 often have radio failures, battery issues, and windshield cracking.
• The 2017 and 2019 models frequently have issues with windshields, dead batteries, and unintended acceleration.

Overview of Problematic Years

When looking at the history of the Subaru Outback, certain years stick out because of big problems with reliability and performance. The 2013 and 2014 models are often seen as some of the worst years for Subaru. These cars had issues like using too much oil and having frequent transmission problems.

Many owners reported these issues, which led to lots of recalls and complaints. The 2013 model had 12 recalls and 268 complaints, while the 2014 model had 10 recalls and 194 complaints. Drivers often experienced vibrations when accelerating and shaking between gears, making these cars less reliable.

Because of these problems, it’s important to be careful if you’re thinking about buying a Subaru Outback from these years.

2006 Subaru Outback Issues

If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Outback, you should know about some common problems people have had with different models.

The engine’s turbocharger can give you trouble, the head gasket might fail, and the transmission can have issues.

These problems can hurt how well the car runs and can be expensive to fix, making the car less dependable.

Engine Turbocharger Problems

Subaru Outback owners have faced serious turbocharger issues that can really hurt the car’s performance and reliability. These problems can lead to less power and even engine failure, so it’s important to deal with them quickly.

You might notice your car using more oil, overheating, making loud noises, or not accelerating well. Sometimes, the engine might even stall, making things worse. These turbocharger troubles aren’t just annoying; they can also be expensive to fix.

If you have a Subaru Outback with these issues, it’s crucial to keep an eye out and act fast. Fixing the problem early can stop more damage and keep your car running smoothly.

Head Gasket Failures

If you own a Subaru Outback from the early 2000s to 2010, it’s important to watch out for head gasket problems. These issues can cause oil leaks, overheating, and serious engine damage.

Signs of a head gasket failure include coolant leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, and a sweet smell from the engine. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your car checked right away to avoid bigger problems.

Ignoring these issues can lead to severe overheating and expensive repairs, costing between $1200 and $2400. Regularly checking your coolant levels and keeping an eye on how your engine is running can help you catch problems early.

Don’t wait if you see warning signs—get your Subaru Outback inspected to prevent further damage.

Transmission Faults

Transmission problems have been a common issue for some Subaru Outback models, especially those made between 2010 and 2013, and in 2017. Owners reported issues like stalling, strange noises from the transmission, and shuddering. The 2011 model had the most recalls because of these problems, which hurt its reliability. The 2017 model also had problems with dead batteries and cracked windshields, making it less dependable. Here’s a quick look:

Fixing these transmission problems is important to keep the vehicle running well and reliable.

2010 Subaru Outback Problems

The 2013 Subaru Outback had a big problem with its piston rings, which caused oil leaks and engine failures. This issue led to a class-action lawsuit that was settled in 2016. Because of these engine problems, it’s best to avoid the 2013 model when looking at used Subaru Outbacks. The faulty piston rings meant more maintenance and possible engine damage.

Other common problems in various Subaru Outback models include:

• Vibration during acceleration
• Cooling system issues
• O2 sensor failures
• Weak windshields

These issues can make repairs more expensive and affect the car’s reliability. So, it’s important to know about these potential problems when checking out used Outback models. Understanding these issues helps you decide which years to avoid.

2011 Subaru Outback Concerns

When looking at the Subaru Outback, there are a few key worries that come up often, especially with the 2013 model. Engine problems and high oil use are big issues. Issues like leaking piston rings and transmission problems often cause the engine to fail.

The 2013 model is also known for using too much oil, which was so bad it led to a class-action lawsuit. Plus, people have complained about steering issues and the engine overheating, which means more maintenance and costly repairs.

Because of these problems, the 2013 Subaru Outback has lower ratings from both consumers and experts, showing it’s not as reliable as other years.

2013 Subaru Outback Troubles

Some Subaru Outback models have had big problems with their engines, transmissions, and burning too much oil. These issues can make certain years of the car less reliable and less attractive to buyers.

• Engine Problems: The 2013 model, in particular, has problems with bad piston rings, which can cause oil leaks and eventually lead to engine failure.
• Oil Consumption: These cars can use up a lot of oil, which means more frequent maintenance and higher costs, annoying many owners.
• Transmission Failures: Some models have transmission issues earlier than expected, leading to expensive repairs.
• Overheating: Various years have had issues with overheating, which can hurt the car’s performance and safety.

Fixing these problems is important for both potential buyers and current owners to avoid unexpected costs and downtime.

2014 Subaru Outback Drawbacks

When looking at the Subaru Outback, especially certain years, you’ll find some big downsides. It often uses too much oil and shakes when you speed up. These problems can make it more expensive to maintain and less enjoyable to drive.

Knowing about these issues can help you decide if it’s the right car for you.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Using too much oil has been a common problem for several Subaru Outback models, affecting their reliability and performance. This ongoing issue can cause the engine to fail, so it’s important to know which model years are more likely to use a lot of oil.

For instance, the 2013 Subaru Outback had major problems because of bad piston rings. The 2014 model also had many complaints about using too much oil and shaking between gears.

2013 Subaru Outback: Bad piston rings causing engine failure.

2014 Subaru Outback: Too much oil use and gear shaking.

2017 Subaru Outback: Dead batteries and cracked windshields possibly linked to oil issues.

2019 Subaru Outback: Complaints about using too much oil and unexpected acceleration.

Knowing about these issues can help you make a better choice when thinking about buying a Subaru Outback.

Vibration While Accelerating

Vibration while accelerating is a common issue in many Subaru Outback models, which can make driving less enjoyable. Owners of the 2014 Subaru Outback often experience this problem, leading to a less comfortable ride.

The 2010 Subaru Outback also has issues with vibrations during acceleration, especially on longer trips. The 2011 Subaru Outback isn’t immune to this either, affecting its performance and driving satisfaction.

These vibrations are usually caused by problems with the drivetrain or engine mounts, and fixing them requires a professional. If you’re thinking about buying a used Subaru Outback, keep in mind that these model years are known for having vibration issues while accelerating, which can greatly affect your driving experience.

2015-2018 Outback Problems

The 2015-2018 Subaru Outback models had a lot of electrical problems that needed frequent fixes, which hurt their reliability. These issues made certain years, especially 2015 and 2018, some of the worst for this model.

Owners reported several problems, including:

• Radio and infotainment system failures
• Battery issues, which led to a lawsuit and settlement
• Many complaints about windshields cracking
• Lower quality affecting overall performance

These electrical and other problems made the Subaru Outback less dependable during these years.

If you own or are thinking about buying a 2015-2018 Outback, be aware of these common issues. It’s important to do thorough research and maybe consider other options to avoid these ongoing problems.

Electrical System Faults

Subaru Outback models from the 5th and 6th generations often have problems with their electrical systems, which can affect their reliability. These issues usually involve the radio and infotainment systems not working correctly because of bad electrical connections.

Newer models are especially prone to these problems, which can mess up how your car functions overall. You might need to take your car to an electrician to find and fix these issues, making sure everything works as it should.

Many owners have reported these electrical problems, so it’s a common issue. Fixing these problems quickly is important for keeping your Subaru Outback running well and staying safe. Knowing about these possible issues can help you decide whether to buy these particular model years.

Excessive Oil Consumption

If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Outback, especially the 2013 model, be aware that it has a known issue with using too much oil. This is mainly due to leaky piston rings, which can cause the engine to fail and increase the need for maintenance. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Uses too much oil: You’ll need to add oil often, and it can damage the engine.
• High maintenance: You’ll have to check and fix oil levels regularly.
• Expensive repairs: Engine problems can lead to costly fixes.
• Legal action: In 2016, a settlement was reached over these piston ring issues.

Because of these problems, it’s really important to inspect and maintain your 2013 Subaru Outback carefully. This can help reduce the risks that come with using too much oil.

Transmission Issues

Many Subaru Outback models, especially those from 2010, 2011, and 2013, have major transmission problems that hurt their overall performance and reliability. Common issues include noise, delayed shifting, jerking, stalling, and shuddering during braking or acceleration. Reviews frequently mention these problems.

The 2010 model had 18 recalls related to transmission issues, while the 2011 model had 16 recalls, making these years ones to avoid.

These issues make these specific Outback models less reliable.

Cooling System Failures

When looking at cooling system problems in Subaru Outbacks, watch out for head gasket leaks because they often cause the engine to overheat.

Problems with the radiator and hoses are also common in the 2010-2013 models.

Additionally, if the thermostat isn’t working right, it can make the engine temperature go up and down, leading to more issues.

Head Gasket Leaks

Head gasket leaks in Subaru Outbacks, especially from the 2000s and early 2010s, often cause coolant to mix with engine oil. This can lead to serious overheating and engine damage. Catching the symptoms early can save you from expensive repairs. Look out for:

• White smoke coming from the exhaust
• An overheating engine
• Losing coolant
• Oil that looks contaminated

It’s crucial to fix head gasket leaks as soon as possible. These issues are more common in certain Subaru Outback models from the 2000s and early 2010s.

Regularly checking your coolant levels and keeping up with maintenance can help you spot problems early. Ignoring these signs could result in major engine damage, so taking action is key to keeping your vehicle in good shape.

Radiator and Hose Issues

Radiator and hose problems in Subaru Outbacks can cause major issues with the cooling system, leading to the engine overheating and potentially getting badly damaged if not taken care of quickly. Signs to watch out for include coolant leaks, overheating, losing engine power, and steam coming from under the hood.

Often, the problem is due to faulty radiator caps or hoses, which cause leaks and reduce cooling efficiency. It’s important to regularly check and maintain your Subaru Outback’s cooling system. Look for leaks, worn-out hoses, and make sure the coolant level is correct to avoid these problems.

Fixing radiator and hose issues right away can save you from expensive repairs, engine damage, and breakdowns. Keeping your cooling system in good shape is crucial for the long-term health and reliability of your Subaru Outback.

Thermostat Malfunctions

If the thermostat in your Subaru Outback isn’t working right, it can mess up the cooling system and cause the engine to overheat badly. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Engine overheating: This is a sure sign that something’s wrong with the thermostat.
• Temperature gauge going up and down: If the temperature gauge isn’t steady, it might mean the coolant isn’t flowing properly.
• No heat from the heater: If your heater isn’t warming up, the thermostat could be stuck open.
• Possible engine damage: Not fixing these problems can lead to expensive repairs, like a blown head gasket.

Regular maintenance and checks can help prevent these issues. Replacing a bad thermostat doesn’t cost much and can save you from major engine damage in your Subaru Outback.

Windshield Cracking Problems

A lot of Subaru Outback owners have had problems with their windshields cracking, especially in the 2017, 2019, and 2020 models. People have complained about their windshields cracking suddenly, even when nothing seems to have hit them. This has raised serious safety concerns.

The 2017 Subaru Outback had a lot of reports about cracks that made it hard to see and cost a lot to fix. In 2019, these issues made the car less popular, as many owners dealt with unexpected windshield damage. The 2020 model had the same issues, leading to several recalls to fix the problem.

If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Outback, know that these specific years have a history of windshield cracking problems.

Engine Performance Issues

If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Outback, be aware that some models have engine problems because of faulty piston rings, which cause the car to use too much oil. This issue was so serious that it led to a class-action lawsuit in 2016.

It can even cause the engine to fail. Many owners have also mentioned that they need to do more maintenance because of ongoing oil leaks.

Defective Piston Rings

The 2013 Subaru Outback has a known issue with defective piston rings, causing big problems like oil leaks and possibly even engine failure. This was serious enough to lead to a class-action lawsuit, which was settled in 2016.

If you own or are thinking about buying a 2013 Outback, here are some things to watch out for:

• Defective piston rings: They can cause oil leaks, making the engine run poorly.
• Engine failure: Ongoing oil problems can lead to the engine breaking down completely.
• More maintenance: Owners often have to deal with frequent and expensive repairs because of this issue.
• Legal action: The class-action lawsuit shows how widespread this problem is.

Knowing about these issues can help you decide whether the 2013 Outback is the right choice for you.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Some Subaru Outback models, especially from 2013 and 2014, are known for using too much oil, which can cause big problems with the engine. Owners have reported engines breaking down and oil leaks because of this issue. This is more than just a small hassle; it leads to high repair costs and makes the car less reliable.

Knowing about these problems can help you avoid engine troubles and unexpected expenses.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

Maintenance and repair costs for Subaru Outback models can be pretty high, especially if your car has known issues. Fixing oil consumption problems might cost between $1,200 and $3,000. If you need to replace the piston rings, which is common in 2013 models, you could spend $3,000 to $5,000.

Transmission repairs are even pricier, usually between $4,000 and $6,000. Fixing head gasket leaks in the cooling system typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500.

• Oil consumption problems: $1,200 to $3,000
• Piston ring replacements: $3,000 to $5,000
• Transmission repairs: $4,000 to $6,000
• Cooling system repairs: $1,500 to $2,500

Regular maintenance usually costs around $500 to $1,000 each year.

Pros and Cons of Avoided Years

When looking at the pros and cons of specific Subaru Outback years to avoid, it’s important to consider both the mechanical issues and how often these problems are reported.

For the 2013 model, common problems include leaking piston rings that lead to high oil use and possible engine failures.

The 2014 Outback has issues with high oil consumption, vibrations, and transmission shudders.

The 2017 model often has dead batteries, cracked windshields, and high coolant use.

The 2019 Outback frequently experiences windshield cracks, battery problems, and unintended acceleration.

Lastly, the 2010 model has issues with vibration, stalling, noisy transmissions, and head gasket failures.

Each of these years has significant problems that outweigh any potential benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Years of Subaru Outback Are Most Reliable?

The most reliable Subaru Outback models are from the years 1994-1999, 2005-2009, and 2018. These models have the best features, fewest performance issues, and have been improved the most. Make sure to follow maintenance tips to keep them running well for a long time.

What Is a Common Problem With a Subaru Outback?

A common problem you might run into with a Subaru Outback includes head gasket failures, using too much oil, transmission trouble, suspension issues, electrical problems, and possible engine failure. Regular maintenance can help you avoid expensive repairs.

What Year Subaru to Stay Away From?

You should avoid the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020 Subaru Outback models. These cars have problems with the engine, transmission, and electrical system, and they can even rust, which makes them less reliable and safe.

Is the Subaru Outback a Reliable Car?

Yes, the Subaru Outback is usually reliable. It offers good off-road performance, decent gas mileage, and a comfortable interior. However, keep in mind that maintenance costs can change depending on the model year and specific problems. Check expert reviews for more detailed information.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Subaru Brz, Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Forester and Subaru Impreza. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

To put it simply, it’s best to avoid the 2010, 2013, 2014, 2017, and 2019 Subaru Outback models. These years have a lot of problems, like using too much oil, transmission issues, and windshields that crack easily. If you steer clear of these models, you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble and expensive repairs.

While the Outback is usually a dependable car, these particular years have had a lot of issues. Make a smart choice and pick a different model year.