Used Subaru Outback 2015-2021 reliability review

What should I look for in a used Subaru Outback?

What are the most common problems with a used Subaru Outback?

When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.

There is more than a chance that your Subaru Outback will have been used off-road, even if not in the real wilds, so check the car carefully for any damage to the bodywork, especially underneath.The main thing to remember is that parts are pricey, so make sure small details all work, such as all the lights and electrical equipment in the interior. Both petrol and diesel engines have been known to develop oil leaks, which can point to potentially more costly fixes. Also check the clutch on the manual diesel models, as they can be used hard. On the whole, though, Subaru’s high reputation for reliability and its obvious build quality have so far indicated few problems of major note.

Is a used Subaru Outback reliable?

The Outback had too few responses to feature in the latest What Car? Reliability Survey, as did Subaru as a brand. However, historically, Subaru has scored reasonably well for reliability.

Used Subaru Outback: the owners' view

In our latest reliability survey, owners said the Subaru Outback (2015-2021) is a fundamentally robust estate, though it isn't immune to faults. Reliability remains a strong suit for both petrol and diesel models, with many owners reporting few major mechanical issues. However, recurring electrical niggles were identified, particularly regarding the infotainment screen and software, which can be laggy or unresponsive. Another common issue is battery drain, which often requires a dealer fix to prevent unexpected flat batteries.

Readers also highlighted surprisingly fragile windshields, which proved expensive to repair. While the EyeSight safety system is highly valued, some reported warning lights triggered by faulty sensors or cameras, leading to costly out-of-warranty visits. Dealer service was generally praised for technical expertise, though the small network size can be inconvenient. A few owners also noted excessive noise from the CVT gearbox. Overall, the Outback remains a reliable, if occasionally expensive, choice.