Is the Subaru Outback reliable?
61% of the 40 we inspected scored 60/100 or higher, with an average of 66/100 — it scores noticeably better than the typical used car we inspect.
40
Cars inspectedreal pre-purchase inspections66/100
Average conditionall cars we check: 61/10061%
In good shape (60+)all cars we check: 56%Across 40 used Subaru Outbacks we inspected, this model scores noticeably better than the typical used car we inspect — average condition 66/100 vs 61 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
65%
Cracked or torn suspension bushings · Suspension
35%
Low coolant / cooling system issues · Engine
30%
Tires condition & wear · Brakes and tires
20%
Fluid leaks · Steering (hydraulic power)
20%
Share of inspected Subaru Outbacks where each item was flagged.
How they score
Excellent 28%
Good 33%
Mediocre 28%
Poor 13%
Hidden history
What the seller might not mention — how often we find it on this model.
63%had a repainted or replaced panelall cars: 75%
5%showed structural repairall cars: 4%
23%had fault codes recently clearedall cars: 24%
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
2010 Subaru Outback · 152k mi — flagged: low coolant / cooling system issues, oil leaks, fuel trim out of range. Inspected Jul 23.
2023 Subaru Outback · 13k mi — flagged: oil leaks, cockpit control unit. Inspected Jun 8.
The bottom line
Oil leaks show up on 65 percent of these Outbacks, so start under the car and around the engine before you talk money, then confirm the cooling system is not low or struggling. After that, inspect the suspension bushings and watch for steering-fluid seepage. A repainted panel is typical and not by itself a reason to walk. If you find active oil leaks plus cooling trouble, negotiate the repair cost or leave; a dry engine and intact bushings are what actually justify taking one home.
FAQ
?
?
What are the most common problems on a used Subaru Outback?
The items we flag most often are oil leaks (65%), cracked or torn suspension bushings (35%), low coolant / cooling system issues (30%). Have these checked before buying.
?
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.
Book an inspection
Based on 40 inspections · updated Oct 1, 2026
