Top Subaru Outback Years Known for Their Reliability

The Subaru Outback has been a staple in automotive production since 1995, with six generations to date. Originating from the Legacy wagon, the Outback is designed with a focus on off-road capability, enhancing the Legacy’s performance with increased ground clearance and a rugged exterior. This unique blend has made the Outback a favorite among automotive enthusiasts and Subaru devotees, marking it as one of the few wagon models still available in the US market. This article will highlight the most reliable Subaru Outback model years while also pointing out those to steer clear of, particularly for buyers considering used options to avoid unexpected maintenance costs or significant mechanical failures.

Reliability data has been sourced from the NHTSA. Manufacturer-issued recalls and complaints have been reviewed, along with insights from consumer surveys. Authoritative sources can be found at the article’s conclusion.

Subaru Outback: A Look at Its History and Generations

The Subaru Legacy Outback was first introduced in 1994 to stimulate sales for the existing Legacy sedan and wagon. Instead of creating a new model, Subaru adapted the second-generation Legacy platform to incorporate SUV features, including a raised ride height and plastic cladding. The Outback’s unique attributes quickly won over consumers, establishing it as one of Subaru of America’s top-selling models in the late 1990s. True to Subaru’s design principles, the Outback comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, powered by the brand’s characteristic horizontally opposed ‘Boxer’ flat-four engine.

The second generation, known as the BE or BH generation, introduced a more rounded design aimed at middle-class consumers, marking the entry of a flat-six (H6) engine along with enhanced interior amenities like wood trim to strengthen its crossover appeal.

Between 2003 and 2009, the third generation (BL/BP Generation) boasted a diverse lineup of engines, including a four-door sedan variant—a Legacy with Outback features. Following this generation, however, the Outback transitioned to a five-door wagon format only.

The fourth generation (2010-2014), also dubbed the ‘BR/BM’ generation, maintained its connection with the Legacy sedan’s parts and engines, featuring a choice between a 2.5L H4 and a 3.6L H6. It was during this generation that Subaru introduced the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, coupled with the 2.5L engine, and debuted the ‘EyeSight’ driver assistance technology in the US market. Additionally, the Outback officially shed the Legacy prefix, establishing itself as a standalone model.

The fifth generation (2015-2019), called the BS generation, utilized the same engines as its predecessor, but both H4 and H6 options were now offered only with the Lineartronic CVT. This generation also introduced Subaru’s STARLINK connectivity service to Outback models.

Finally, the sixth generation, known as the BT generation, launched for the 2020 model year with a smaller engine lineup, including a new turbocharged H4. Enhancements to its utilitarian nature included exterior design updates and accessories that make it competitive with contemporary ‘overlander’ SUV models, alongside the introduction of Subaru’s ‘X-Mode’ multi-terrain response system for improved off-road capability.

Today, the Outback stands alongside other Subaru models featuring off-road dynamics, including the larger Forester and Ascent, as well as the smaller Crosstrek.

This feature will concentrate specifically on the Subaru Legacy-based Outback models, excluding the Outback Sport, which was based on the Impreza hatchback from 1994 to 2011.

The Best Subaru Outback Model Years

Due to its shared platform and numerous components with one of the most reliable modern Subaru SUV models, the Outback has consistently proven itself to be dependable over various iterations. This wagon is not only practical but has also earned a solid reputation for reliability. Based on the available information, we suggest the following model years of the Subaru Outback if you’re considering a purchase.

As with any used car purchase, thorough research is crucial to find a model less likely to experience significant issues—even those with lower mileage or a comprehensive service background. This could include arranging for a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified technician to gain more insights about the condition of the specific Subaru Outback you are interested in buying.

2023 Subaru Outback (BT Generation)

The most recent 2023 Subaru Outback models from the sixth generation have come highly recommended. As the youngest and most current Outback models available, they report notably fewer issues compared to other BT-generation years since their launch in 2020. Furthermore, the latest models have excelled in government NHTSA and independent IIHS crash tests, receiving ‘Good’ ratings in the stringent IIHS front moderate and small overlap assessments. Notably, the Outback was the only midsize model in its segment to clear the updated and more challenging side impact test, enhancing its safety appeal for family vehicles. If you’re seeking the premier year for the Subaru Outback, the 2023 model stands out as an excellent choice.

2023 Subaru Outback Recalls

• Reversing camera display not operational
• Front end of the driveshaft can detach

2012 Subaru Outback (BR Generation)

The last year of the fourth-generation Outback is also a noteworthy recommendation for those seeking a used vehicle. This model year is particularly appealing if prospective buyers are interested in the more powerful 3.6L H6 engine, which is matched with a robust five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission—unlike the smaller H4 engines, which must work with a less reliable Lineatronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Lineatronic CVT is known for issues like slipping and potentially costly failures due to its design. Furthermore, 2014 was the final year for the H6 engine in the Outback lineup, making this an iconic year for enthusiasts. Overall, this year stands out as one of the best Outback iterations.

Similar recommendations favor other Subaru SUVs from this year, such as the 2012 Subaru Forester.

2009 Subaru Outback (BL/BP Generation)

The final model year of the third-generation Subaru Outback is also worth considering for potential buyers. While there are some reported issues for this year, the 2009 model displays the lowest overall complaint rates among all years of the third-generation. Moreover, this model features an updated grille/fascia design, keeping its look fresh for enthusiasts today. Buyers might also find good examples available with a desirable manual transmission.

Subaru Outback: Years to Avoid

While Subaru is known for constructing robust vehicles with solid build quality, not every Outback has maintained that reputation. Concerns surrounding Subaru’s horizontally opposed ‘Boxer’ engines are a common topic of discussion, particularly regarding potential mechanical failures. One frequently reported problem is the notorious rod bearing failure, also recognized as ‘rod-knock,’ which is a significant concern for all Subaru boxer engines.

Other prevalent issues reported by Subaru Outback owners include:

• Excessive oil consumption
• Complications related to transmission failure (notably with continuously variable transmissions)
• Battery drain or unexpected battery failure
• Problems with miscellaneous interior accessories
• Prone to windscreen cracking

For those interested in purchasing a Subaru Outback, there are several model years that we recommend avoiding.

2013 Subaru Outback (BR Generation)

We advise against considering any fourth-generation Subaru Outbacks from the 2013 model year, as this year suffers from the most grave concerns. Data from Car Complaints indicates that the most prevalent issue is excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 2.5L H4 and 3.6L H6 engines, leading to significant complaints about defective piston rings. These concerns, extending to other Subaru models manufactured since 2011, culminated in a class action lawsuit in 2014.

Despite the 2018 Subaru Outback receiving the most overall complaints, we rate the 2013 model year as the more troublesome option, considering factors such as higher repair costs and more issues at lower mileages.

The Outbacks from 2013 also encountered multiple recalls, most notably the Takata airbag recall, which impacted the front passenger airbag inflator. This hazard arose due to potential ignition from degradation of the propellant material in specific temperature and climate conditions. In such cases, the airbag can unexpectedly deploy, posing significant safety risks to passengers. Subaru has addressed these recalls by replacing affected passenger airbag inflators at no cost to owners.

2018 Subaru Outback (BS Generation)

For those considering purchasign a used fifth-generation Outback, models from 2018 should also be avoided. Car Complaints indicates that these Outbacks have garnered the highest number of complaints amongst the entire Outback lineup, according to current data. Commonly reported problems for this model year include electrical malfunctions, issues with interior accessories, and steering as well as engine troubles. Among 733 reported complaints to the NHTSA, significant electrical problems regarding unexplained battery drain have rendered the vehicles inoperable. Faulty electrical components have also affected various features from the powered rear tailgate to the infotainment system display. Several recalls were issued, mostly targeting fuel system-related components.

2018 Subaru Outback Recalls

• Incorrect fuel range display
• Fuel pump failure
• Rearview camera display malfunction

Summary: Overall, A Reliable And Rugged Wagon

For those in search of a Subaru Outback, it is ideal to focus on the latest generation models that are a year or two old. If on a tighter budget, consider looking into the final model years of the third and fourth generations. However, both the 2010 and 2011 model years of the Outback come with substantial recalls, while the 2013 and 2018 models reported numerous complaints. Systemic issues range from significant airbag inflator recalls to excessive oil consumption and potential rod-bearing failures in these models, making thorough research essential before finalizing the purchase of any Outback model.

Regardless of the Outback generation you are eyeing, this wagon has consistently demonstrated reliability and durability in Subaru’s lineup. The Outback remains a sought-after option for those desiring a Subaru in a wagon format, especially since the discontinuation of the five-door Legacy Wagon. Currently, the Outback stands as the only five-door wagon available in Subaru’s US offerings.

Sources:
NHTSA
,
CarComplaints.com
,
Consumer Reports