Likes
- One of those rare vehicles that successfully does nearly everything for everyone.
- Interior and exterior trim wearing well.
- Excellent practicality and levels of equipment.
- Very enjoyable driving experience.
Used Subaru Outback review
2014 - 2020
Dislikes
- Major concerns surrounding CVT gremlins and expensive repairs.
- Oil consumption issues.
- Mechanically, not as robust as many assume.
- 6-cylinder is the pick but it is thirsty.
Stuff you should know
The 5th-generation Subaru Outback is a midsize crossover SUV that boasts a rugged and versatile design, making it an excellent choice for adventurous families. This vehicle is equipped with standard all-wheel drive and raised ground clearance of 213mm, which makes it perfect for off-road adventures.
The exterior of the Subaru Outback features a muscular and chiselled design, with a sleek front grille, sharp headlights, sculpted lines, and muscular wheel arches. The Outback also features a range of advanced features such as LED headlights and fog lights, roof rails, and an available power sunroof.
The interior of the Subaru Outback offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality materials, a large boot, with flat-folding seats. The vehicle is equipped with a large infotainment system, a range of smartphone integration features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system can be had. Some grades also feature heated front and rear seats, leather-trimmed upholstery, and a power tailgate.
The Subaru Outback comes with a choice of three engines: 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine (2.0D) 2.5 litre 4-cylinder engine (2.5i, Touring, 2.5i-X) and a 3.6-litre 6-cylinder engine (3.6R). All engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission that provides smooth and responsive acceleration. The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system is standard and provides excellent traction on any terrain, while the raised ground clearance allows for excellent off-road capability.
Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the Outback is no exception. The vehicle comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Other safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and reverse automatic braking.
The 5th-generation Subaru Outback is an excellent choice for families who are looking for a versatile, capable, and comfortable vehicle that can handle any adventure. Its rugged and versatile design, spacious and comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and reliable performance make it one of the best midsize crossover SUVs on the market today.
What goes wrong
Exterior:
The Blind Spot Monitoring on 2015 and 2016 models can be faulty or fail to work. Generally the system has to be recalibrated which should address the problem.
Interior:
Infotainment systems can have a range of dramas. Bluetooth connection issues, frozen screens, random system shutdowns, volume controls not working, not overly common however there are reports.
These infotainment issues are seemingly more prevalent on 2015 – 2019 models and the good news is that most of these issues can be sorted with a Software Update.
Also regarding 2015 – 2019 models, some owners have complained that the battery can drain excessively fast.
In fact, this drainage was so pronounced a class-action lawsuit was filed against Subaru claiming that Subaru know about this fault and are intentionally letting the batteries drain quicker than they should.
However a settlement was issued resulting in an extended warranty for any car that suffered from this issue.
Mechanically:
Starting with the 2.0-litre turbo diesel. Many are experiencing DPF related issues. There are a host reasons for this but the three most common causes are split intercooler pipes, clogged MAP sensor and servicing, or the lack thereof, or if the wrong oil is used, or surprisingly common the oil dilution tables aren’t reset properly after servicing, (which you need a scan tool to do properly for those of you playing at home).
The 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol 4-cylinder FB25 is the Subaru workhorse that is the most common in this generation of Outback.
It has a few issues, and the worst of them is oil consumption, in fact, oil consumption in the FB25 has killed plenty of examples.
They have a 12,500km service interval which is ok, but once they start using oil they wont make it to 12,500kms without a top up or two.
If these engines are not burning oil, they’re leaking it. Usually from the timing cover or cam carrier which usually leaks onto the exhaust manifold where it burns subsequently smokes and stinks. Unfortunately, to fix the oil leaks properly can cost thousands.
The 3.6-litre naturally aspirated 6-cylinder EZ36 is the pick of the bunch in terms of reliability but it does use a lot of fuel. It is far from perfect though as it also has oil leak and consumption issues although not as bad as the 4-cylinder engines however, it does have some common timing chain complications.
All of these engines in these are known for drive belt and tensioner complications and the air conditioning compressors have a relatively short life too.
Now, the transmissions. The CVT in this generation of Outback is arguably one of the most unreliable CVT’s on the market.
We’re not claiming they are all
Exterior:
The Blind Spot Monitoring on 2015 and 2016 models can be faulty or fail to work. Generally the system has to be recalibrated which should address the problem.
Interior:
Infotainment systems can have a range of dramas. Bluetooth connection issues, frozen screens, random system shutdowns, volume controls not working, not overly common however there are reports.
These infotainment issues are seemingly more prevalent on 2015 – 2019 models and the good news is that most of these issues can be sorted with a Software Update.
Also regarding 2015 – 2019 models, some owners have complained that the battery can drain excessively fast.
In fact, this drainage was so pronounced a class-action lawsuit was filed against Subaru claiming that Subaru know about this fault and are intentionally letting the batteries drain quicker than they should.
However a settlement was issued resulting in an extended warranty for any car that suffered from this issue.
Mechanically:
Starting with the 2.0-litre turbo diesel. Many are experiencing DPF related issues. There are a host reasons for this but the three most common causes are split intercooler pipes, clogged MAP sensor and servicing, or the lack thereof, or if the wrong oil is used, or surprisingly common the oil dilution tables aren’t reset properly after servicing, (which you need a scan tool to do properly for those of you playing at home).
The 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol 4-cylinder FB25 is the Subaru workhorse that is the most common in this generation of Outback.
It has a few issues, and the worst of them is oil consumption, in fact, oil consumption in the FB25 has killed plenty of examples.
They have a 12,500km service interval which is ok, but once they start using oil they wont make it to 12,500kms without a top up or two.
If these engines are not burning oil, they’re leaking it. Usually from the timing cover or cam carrier which usually leaks onto the exhaust manifold where it burns subsequently smokes and stinks. Unfortunately, to fix the oil leaks properly can cost thousands.
The 3.6-litre naturally aspirated 6-cylinder EZ36 is the pick of the bunch in terms of reliability but it does use a lot of fuel. It is far from perfect though as it also has oil leak and consumption issues although not as bad as the 4-cylinder engines however, it does have some common timing chain complications.
All of these engines in these are known for drive belt and tensioner complications and the air conditioning compressors have a relatively short life too.
Now, the transmissions. The CVT in this generation of Outback is arguably one of the most unreliable CVT’s on the market.
We’re not claiming they are all bad and some examples will never have a problem but those that do, (out of warranty) are often up for a $2500 to $9000 dollar repair bill.
In some markets Subaru have extended the warranty because ion these CVT issues however, those warranties wont last forever. ”
Recalls:
- 9 June 2015 – 5,073 units of the Liberty and Outback models were recalled due to a software programming issue that could have prevented the PCB system from operating properly in an emergency braking situation or when the vehicle was in ACC mode if there was a brake lamp switch failure, but it did not affect the performance of the brakes when engaged by the driver.
- 21 March 2016 – 15,585 units of the 2014-2015 Subaru Liberty and Outback models were recalled due to a defect that could have caused the Electronic Parking Brake motor to become stuck after engagement, making it difficult to subsequently release.
- 6 March 2019 – 129 units of the 2017/2018Outback model were recalled because they had been fitted with an oil pipe that had a smaller interior pipe diameter than required, potentially resulting in insufficient oil supply to the turbocharger’s turbine bearing and causing premature wear or in the worst case, the turbine blade to fracture due to a seized bearing.
- 6 May 2019 – 10,815 units of the 2017/2018Outback and Liberty models by Subaru were recalled due to a programming error in the Combination Meter Display unit that caused the driving range indicator to display inaccurate information about the distance that could be driven before refuelling, but the low fuel warning light still functioned properly.
- 18 May 2021 – 71,986 units of the Subaru Liberty, Outback, and Impreza models were recalled due to a deteriorating fuel pump harness connector that could have caused extended engine cranking time on start-up, no engine start, or engine stall in worst-case scenarios.
- 24 August 2021 – 2,037 units of 2018-2019 Subaru models including BRZ, WRX, LEVORG 1.6, LEVORG 2.0, LIBERTY 3.6, OUTBACK 3.6, and FORESTER XT were recalled as the fuel pump impeller may not have met manufacturing specifications, causing it to become deformed and stop working, which could have resulted in vehicle stalling.
- 3 August 2022 – Subaru recalled 78,617 units of 2015-2018 Liberty, Outback, Levorg, WRX, 2017-2019 Impreza and XV models due to a manufacturing issue that could have caused the Electronic Park Brake adaptor cord connector to not operate as intended, which could have resulted in the vehicle moving or rolling away while engaged in the park position.
Exterior:
The Blind Spot Monitoring on 2015 and 2016 models can be faulty or fail to work. Generally the system has to be recalibrated which should address the problem.
Interior:
Infotainment systems can have a range of dramas. Bluetooth connection issues, frozen screens, random system shutdowns, volume controls not working, not overly common however there are reports.
These infotainment issues are seemingly more prevalent on 2015 – 2019 models and the good news is that most of these issues can be sorted with a Software Update.
Also regarding 2015 – 2019 models, some owners have complained that the battery can drain excessively fast.
In fact, this drainage was so pronounced a class-action lawsuit was filed against Subaru claiming that Subaru know about this fault and are intentionally letting the batteries drain quicker than they should.
However a settlement was issued resulting in an extended warranty for any car that suffered from this issue.
Mechanically:
Starting with the 2.0-litre turbo diesel. Many are experiencing DPF related issues. There are a host reasons for this but the three most common causes are split intercooler pipes, clogged MAP sensor and servicing, or the lack thereof, or if the wrong oil is used, or surprisingly common the oil dilution tables aren’t reset properly after servicing, (which you need a scan tool to do properly for those of you playing at home).
The 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol 4-cylinder FB25 is the Subaru workhorse that is the most common in this generation of Outback.
It has a few issues, and the worst of them is oil consumption, in fact, oil consumption in the FB25 has killed plenty of examples.
They have a 12,500km service interval which is ok, but once they start using oil they wont make it to 12,500kms without a top up or two.
If these engines are not burning oil, they’re leaking it. Usually from the timing cover or cam carrier which usually leaks onto the exhaust manifold where it burns subsequently smokes and stinks. Unfortunately, to fix the oil leaks properly can cost thousands.
The 3.6-litre naturally aspirated 6-cylinder EZ36 is the pick of the bunch in terms of reliability but it does use a lot of fuel. It is far from perfect though as it also has oil leak and consumption issues although not as bad as the 4-cylinder engines however, it does have some common timing chain complications.
All of these engines in these are known for drive belt and tensioner complications and the air conditioning compressors have a relatively short life too.
Now, the transmissions. The CVT in this generation of Outback is arguably one of the most unreliable CVT’s on the market.
We’re not claiming they are all bad and some examples will never have a problem but those that do, (out of warranty) are often up for a $2500 to $9000 dollar repair bill.
In some markets Subaru have extended the warranty because ion these CVT issues however, those warranties wont last forever. ”
Recalls:
- 9 June 2015 – 5,073 units of the Liberty and Outback models were recalled due to a software programming issue that could have prevented the PCB system from operating properly in an emergency braking situation or when the vehicle was in ACC mode if there was a brake lamp switch failure, but it did not affect the performance of the brakes when engaged by the driver.
- 21 March 2016 – 15,585 units of the 2014-2015 Subaru Liberty and Outback models were recalled due to a defect that could have caused the Electronic Parking Brake motor to become stuck after engagement, making it difficult to subsequently release.
- 6 March 2019 – 129 units of the 2017/2018Outback model were recalled because they had been fitted with an oil pipe that had a smaller interior pipe diameter than required, potentially resulting in insufficient oil supply to the turbocharger’s turbine bearing and causing premature wear or in the worst case, the turbine blade to fracture due to a seized bearing.
- 6 May 2019 – 10,815 units of the 2017/2018Outback and Liberty models by Subaru were recalled due to a programming error in the Combination Meter Display unit that caused the driving range indicator to display inaccurate information about the distance that could be driven before refuelling, but the low fuel warning light still functioned properly.
- 18 May 2021 – 71,986 units of the Subaru Liberty, Outback, and Impreza models were recalled due to a deteriorating fuel pump harness connector that could have caused extended engine cranking time on start-up, no engine start, or engine stall in worst-case scenarios.
- 24 August 2021 – 2,037 units of 2018-2019 Subaru models including BRZ, WRX, LEVORG 1.6, LEVORG 2.0, LIBERTY 3.6, OUTBACK 3.6, and FORESTER XT were recalled as the fuel pump impeller may not have met manufacturing specifications, causing it to become deformed and stop working, which could have resulted in vehicle stalling.
- 3 August 2022 – Subaru recalled 78,617 units of 2015-2018 Liberty, Outback, Levorg, WRX, 2017-2019 Impreza and XV models due to a manufacturing issue that could have caused the Electronic Park Brake adaptor cord connector to not operate as intended, which could have resulted in the vehicle moving or rolling away while engaged in the park position.
Should you buy it?
The Outback is just a huge compromise but, oddly calling it a compromise is actually a compliment because there are very few other cars that can do what the Outback does.
It’s an SUV that seems to avoid many of the compromises and hits to your image that can come with normal SUVs, it’s a station wagon yet it’s tougher and more purposeful than other station wagons thanks to the raised ride height and body cladding, it offers an almost European experience yet it still clearly feels like a Subaru, so it just does nearly everything so right.
However, we state nearly everything because the mechanical, oil consumption, CVT and electronic gremlins are a real concern. However, through our research we found many Outbacks on our roads have never had, and probably will never have an issue.
Should you buy one? It’s a cautious, yes.
Make sure it has a full and thorough service history, it is imperative to have a pre-purchase inspection carried out, make sure you keep all the maintenance up to date and maybe pop $5000 away somewhere in case the transmission goes bang.
If you can categorically confirm the Outback you’re looking at ticks all the boxes, it is an excellent used car, just please be careful.
The Outback is just a huge compromise but, oddly calling it a compromise is actually a compliment because there are very few other cars that can do what the Outback does.
It’s an SUV that seems to avoid many of the compromises and hits to your image that can come with normal SUVs, it’s a station wagon yet it’s tougher and more purposeful than other station wagons thanks to the raised ride height and body cladding, it offers an almost European experience yet it still clearly feels like a Subaru, so it just does nearly everything so right.
However, we state nearly everything because the mechanical, oil consumption, CVT and electronic gremlins are a real concern. However, through our research we found many Outbacks on our roads have never had, and probably will never have an issue.
Should you buy one? It’s a cautious, yes.
Make sure it has a full and thorough service history, it is imperative to have a pre-purchase inspection carried out, make sure you keep all the maintenance up to date and maybe pop $5000 away somewhere in case the transmission goes bang.
If you can categorically confirm the Outback you’re looking at ticks all the boxes, it is an excellent used car, just please be careful.
Should you buy it?
The Outback is just a huge compromise but, oddly calling it a compromise is actually a compliment because there are very few other cars that can do what the Outback does.
It’s an SUV that seems to avoid many of the compromises and hits to your image that can come with normal SUVs, it’s a station wagon yet it’s tougher and more purposeful than other station wagons thanks to the raised ride height and body cladding, it offers an almost European experience yet it still clearly feels like a Subaru, so it just does nearly everything so right.
However, we state nearly everything because the mechanical, oil consumption, CVT and electronic gremlins are a real concern. However, through our research we found many Outbacks on our roads have never had, and probably will never have an issue.
Should you buy one? It’s a cautious, yes.
Make sure it has a full and thorough service history, it is imperative to have a pre-purchase inspection carried out, make sure you keep all the maintenance up to date and maybe pop $5000 away somewhere in case the transmission goes bang.
If you can categorically confirm the Outback you’re looking at ticks all the boxes, it is an excellent used car, just please be careful.
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of March 24, 2023.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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