For anyone shopping for the best used year for Subaru Outback, you want to look into 2009, 2010-2012, 2016-2017, 2021, & 2022. These years excelled in reliability, owner satisfaction, and useful features.
But there are also years you might want to think long & hard about if you wish to avoid surprises or costly repairs, such as the 2013 Subaru Outback.
Subaru’s engineering offers many benefits, but they haven’t all been smooth rides. Some models have introduced new technology too early, while others have had an engine that inevitably affected reliability.
The Outback has many generations, and each generation has had significant changes in design, powertrains, & features. With more possibilities, your buying decision really matters if you want the mental peace of mind that comes with it.
The Best Subaru Outback Years (Most Reliable)
2005-2009 Outback (Third Generation)
People love these older Outbacks as they are quite durable & simple. While the 2.5L from this period can have head gasket issues, if it was well maintained, they are still capable of lasting hundreds of thousands of miles.
The 2009 model is the final year of the third-generation Subaru Outback, with a seal of awesome stamp from carcomplaints.com.
If you feel comfortable digging into maintenance history, these can be a good source of affordable, reliable cars with classic Subaru AWD performance.
2010-2012 Subaru Outback (Fourth Generation)
While CVT transmissions were a concern in the beginning, the Subaru Outbacks from 2010 to 2012 are considered reliable vehicles with average scores from Consumer Reports & J.D. Power.
The Outbacks from these years introduced the CVT that replaced traditional manuals and automatics on most trims. Some Outbacks had transmission issues, but many others are happy with these vehicles. The six-cylinder 3.6L (later phased out) had very good, smooth power delivery & longevity.
2016 and 2017 Subaru Outback (Fifth Generation)
If you want the modern technology around safety & infotainment, but you don’t need the complicated designs and configurations for the interior, the 2016 & 2017 models should suit you well.
By this point in production, they’ve worked out many of the issues from earlier generations. Owners rave about the ride quality, and the AWD system works well.
Of course, no vehicle is perfect, but these two years have had fewer reported concerns, and have good resale value due to this, all the while being modern enough to have some decent equipment.
2021 and 2022 Subaru Outback (Sixth Generation)
The 2021 & 2022 models incorporate the best driver assists available today, new efficient turbocharged engine options, and a much better interior. Bolstered by its modern tech functionality, and having avoided most of the bad play from the 2020 model, which was often considered the weakest in the group, with mediocre owner reviews, early owner feedback.
“I think the 2022 is the best of the newest iterations,” a Reddit user shared. “It doesn’t have the extra plastic by the headlights which I personally don’t love.”
These two definitely serve up a great value for reliability, with plenty of opportunities in the range of new and used options available!
Subaru Outback Model Years To Avoid (Least Reliable)
2013 and 2014 Subaru Outback (Fourth Generation)
The 2013 & 2014 model years have seen a volume of complaints related to CVT transmission issues, electrical issues, and software problems. In fact, the 2014 model has the “beware of the clunkers” reputation for ongoing reliability issues, so it is one you want to steer away from when used for shopping.
Talking about some good stuff about the 2014 model, it saw the introduction of a new EyeSight safety system, which provided advanced driver aids. The system is still very relevant today.
There were also infotainment updates and an improved chassis to offer a refined ride.
Although the 2018 Subaru Outback has the most overall complaints, we rate the 2013 model year as worse because of other possible factors, such as higher repair costs or more problems at lower mileage.
2018 Subaru Outback (Fifth Generation)
Despite the new technology, the Outback in 2018 is rated much lower in owner satisfaction and reliability. The efficacy issues, like excessive oil consumption, vibrations in the transmission, and electrical reliability issues, make the 2018 Outback less favorable than its surrounding model years.
2020 Subaru Outback (Sixth Generation)
When the sixth generation launched in 2020, there were reports of infotainment glitches, CVT hiccups, and early adopter problems in general. Most experts advised waiting for later sixth-generation models, and many problems were fixed in the 2021 Subaru Outback.
Subaru Outback Reliability Summary
| Year Range | Generation | Reliability Notes | Verdict |
| 2005–2009 | Third Generation | Reliable overall; watch for head gasket failures & oil consumption in 2.5L models. | Good |
| 2010–2012 | Fourth Generation | Introduction of CVT; 3.6L engines praised; transmission issues in some 2.5L models. | Good |
| 2013–2014 | Fourth Generation | High complaint volumes; CVT & electrical issues; 2014 notably problematic. | Avoid |
| 2016–2017 | Fifth Generation | Improved reliability & tech; EyeSight safety; comfortable & refined drive. | Good |
| 2018 | Fifth Generation | Reliability issues, including oil consumption & transmission concerns. | Avoid |
| 2020 | Sixth Generation | Early problems with infotainment & CVT; still being refined. | Avoid |
| 2021–2022 | Sixth Generation | Strong reliability & tech improvements; turbocharged options; Wilderness trims for off-road use. | Good |
Most Common Problems with a Subaru Outback
Although the Subaru Outback is seen as an overall reliable SUV, it has been recalled due to common issues such as the CVT transmission, electrical issues, and head gasket failures.
Head Gasket Failures: It’s mostly pre-2010 2.5L engines. This problem may result in mixing oil into the coolant, creating damage to the engine.
CVT Transmission Shuddering: These problems seemed to affect the first few years of the fourth generation. Some users experienced hesitation & shuddering.
Oil Consumption: Found in some model years of 2013-2015; users reported running out of oil faster than expected. So, keep a closer eye on your oil levels.
Electrical/electronics: With the use of EyeSight, some first generations did have some bugs that resulted in warning lights & freezing on their infotainment systems.
Rust: The good news is that rust has improved on the Outback. However, in some colder conditions, rust could be an issue for many older model years.
Recalls: I found many model years recalled for Takata airbag issues, but mostly for interior windshield wiper motor fixes.
How Long Can a Subaru Outback Last?
Many Subaru Outbacks last over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Most Subaru boxer engines & All Wheel Drive systems will last for a long time with frequent oil changes and dealing with known problems sooner than later.
Read Also: Is 200,000 Miles Bad For A Used Car?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which model years of the Subaru Outback are the most reliable?
The most reliable models from 2009, 2010-2012, 2016-2017, and 2021-2022 are generally regarded as having not many major issues.
What model years should I avoid when buying a used Outback?
You should avoid the 2013, 2014, 2018, and 2020 model years because of reported issues with reliability, electrical systems, and transmission problems.
Does the Outback really have head gasket problems?
Yes, the head gasket problem is a real problem and is focused primarily on 2.5L engines from before 2010. If you are looking at a pre-2010 Outback, make sure you confirm that the head gaskets were replaced or that it had a maintenance program.
Check Out: Where To Find The VIN On A Car
Are newer Outbacks better?
Newer Outbacks will have better technology and safety systems, but it is smart to do your homework and choose a used Outback that was properly maintained.
Final Say
It is still too early to see a reliable rating for post-2020 Subaru Outback models, but the 2021 & 2022 models have received a good amount of positive reviews. Do your research for these wagon bodystyle Subaru, make sure to check the history and test drive before you buy!
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