Is the Subaru Outback reliable?
62% of the 39 we inspected scored 60/100 or higher, with an average of 64/100 — it scores a little better than average.
39
Cars inspectedreal pre-purchase inspections64/100
Average conditionall cars we check: 60/10062%
In good shape (60+)all cars we check: 52%Across 39 used Subaru Outbacks we inspected, this model scores a little better than average — average condition 64/100 vs 60 for all cars we check. Every number on this page comes from real pre-purchase inspections — cars people were about to buy and paid an independent inspector to go through point by point, engine to underbody, paint depth to error codes. Not owner surveys, not warranty statistics, not forum lore: what we actually found.
What we found
Most common faults
Oil leaks · Engine
64%
Cracked or torn suspension bushings · Suspension
33%
Low coolant / cooling system issues · Engine
28%
Fluid leaks · Steering (hydraulic power)
21%
Tires condition & wear · Brakes and tires
21%
Share of inspected Subaru Outbacks where each item was flagged.
How they score
Excellent 21%
Good 41%
Mediocre 33%
Poor 5%
Hidden history
What the seller might not mention — how often we find it on this model.
62%had a repainted or replaced panelall cars: 76%
5%showed structural repairall cars: 4%
23%had fault codes recently clearedall cars: 23%
How long does a Outback stay good?
Good cars by mileage
Share of Subaru Outbacks in good shape (scoring 60+/100) by mileage and by age when we inspected them (each dot ≥5 cars; rolled-back odometers excluded from the mileage curve). The dashed grey curve is all cars we check.
More on Subaru
Other Subaru models we've inspected — or see the full Subaru profile.
Straight from recent Subaru Outback reports
2023 Subaru Outback · 13k mi — flagged: oil leaks, cockpit control unit. Inspected Jun 8.
2018 Subaru Outback · 71k mi — flagged: oil leaks, air filter. Inspected Apr 23.
FAQ
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What are the most common problems on a used Subaru Outback?
The items we flag most often are oil leaks (64%), cracked or torn suspension bushings (33%), low coolant / cooling system issues (28%). Have these checked before buying.
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Should I worry about cleared fault codes?
On 23% of these cars the ECU codes had been erased shortly before sale, which can hide active faults. Ask for a diagnostic scan and start the engine from cold.
Thinking of buying a Subaru Outback? Get the exact car inspected before you pay.
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Based on 39 inspections · updated Jul 12, 2026
