How Long Do Subaru Outbacks Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Published December 31, 2023
in Reliability

The Subaru Outback has earned a reputation as a reliable workhorse in the automotive world. Known for its solid performance in various conditions, from urban commutes to rural adventures, the Outback’s ruggedness is undoubtedly a big part of its selling point, along with the well-known standard all-wheel drive.

With that said, what about its longevity? How long do Subaru Outbacks last?

The longevity of the Subaru Outback can be attributed to its solid engineering and focus on quality. For instance, the Boxer engine, known for its balanced performance and efficiency, and the use of high-strength steel in the frame are just some of the many examples of Subaru’s commitment to quality.

For today, we take a closer look at the Outback’s lifespan, how many miles it can last, and whether it’s a good investment for used car buyers.

How Many Miles Does the Subaru Outback Last?

The Subaru Outback is widely recognized for its reliability and durability, with many owners reporting high mileage without significant issues. A vital aspect of this longevity is the expectation that the Outback can last over 200,000 to 300,000 miles, assuming proper and regular maintenance. Subaru touts that 96% of its cars sold over ten years are still on the road, and there’s a good chance many of them are Outbacks.

However, remember that the Outback, like any other vehicle, can encounter issues as it accumulates mileage. Some common problems that may arise, especially once the car surpasses 100,000 miles, include front engine oil leaks, transmission converter torque leading to vibrating or shuddering issues, head gasket failures, oxygen sensor problems, and battery and glow plug issues. But it’s worth noting that these problems are not unique to the Outback and can be found in many other long-lasting vehicles.

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Conversations surrounding the Outback also add a vote of confidence to its longevity. A thread on the Subaru Outback Forums had numerous reports from Outback owners. According to users, first-generation Outbacks (1995-1999) are known for their durability even at high mileage. Instances of Outbacks running smoothly with over 300,000 miles are not uncommon.

One original owner of a 2003 Outback 2.5 reported no breakdowns and smooth running at 105,000 miles. Meanwhile, another user with a 1997 Outback had nearly 180,000 miles on their vehicle, needing only to replace brakes, tires, and a catalytic converter.

How long do Subaru Outbacks last? Many signs point to the potential longevity of the Outback, with many units crossing the 200k miles threshold with little to no issues.

What Is a Good Mileage for a Used Subaru Outback?

While mileage is a crucial factor to consider when buying a used Outback, It is generally agreed that a vehicle’s maintenance history is more important than its actual mileage. For example, a Subaru Outback with higher mileage (such as 150,000 or more) but with a well-documented service record may be a better choice than a vehicle with lower mileage but no maintenance history.

Look at the significant service milestones. For instance, if the Outback is nearing a point where considerable maintenance (like timing belt replacement at around 100k+ miles) is due, this should be factored into the decision.

Overall, the general advice is that high mileage isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker. Still, it increases the importance of thorough inspection for issues like head gasket leaks and overall vehicle condition. As such, a Subaru Outback with over 100,000 miles can still be a good option for used car buyers, provided it balances good service history and price.

ARE SUBARU OUTBACKS RELIABLE?

We’ll dig into the details about whether an Outback is a reliable vehicle and tell you everything you need to know before you buy.

Should I Buy a Used Subaru Outback with More Than 100k Miles?

As mentioned, an Outback with over 100,000 mileage is far from a deal-breaker. If you’re considering buying a used Subaru Outback with more than 100,000 miles, remember the common problems these vehicles might encounter.

Head Gasket Issues: Subaru Outbacks, especially older models, are known for head gasket failures. This can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Transmission Problems: Some Outback models, particularly those from 2002 to 2004 and 2010 to 2013, have been reported to experience transmission issues. These can include harsh shifting and transmission slipping, sometimes necessitating expensive repairs like a complete transmission rebuild.
Oil Consumption and Leaks: Some models of Outback cars, particularly those made between 2010 and 2012, may experience faster oil consumption or leaks. Problems with the piston rings or camshaft and crankshaft seals often cause these leaks.
Cooling System Failures: Some models, especially between 2000 and 2018, have encountered cooling system failures, including broken thermostats, radiator problems, or coolant leaks. These issues can lead to overheating and potentially damage the head gasket if not addressed quickly.
Electrical Problems: Certain model years, like the 2015-2018 Outbacks, have had reports of electrical issues. This can range from problems with interior features to more severe concerns like battery failures.
Frequent Headlight Burnout: Particularly in the 2011 model, some owners have reported needing to replace headlight bulbs more frequently than usual, which can add to maintenance costs.
Faulty Airbags: The 2010 model year was affected by a recall due to defective airbag inflators, which could pose a safety risk.

Note that while not all Subaru Outbacks are affected, it is vital for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems. Proper maintenance can help many Subaru Outbacks run well beyond 100,000 miles.

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Final Thoughts: Is a Used Subaru Outback a Wise Investment?

How long do Subaru Outbacks last? In terms of longevity and general reliability, it’s hard to go wrong with an Outback. As per our previous write-up, the Outback wagon is one of the most reliable Subarus in the market.

Subaru has significantly improved the Outback, particularly noticeable in models produced from 2019 onwards. If you’re in the market for a long-term wagon, a used Subaru Outback could be a wise investment due to its long lifespan potential. However, it’s essential to remember that not all model years are equally reliable, and longevity can vary from one model year to the next.

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