Japan
Subaru is the quirky Japanese brand known for boxer engines, standard AWD, and a fiercely loyal owner community. Popular with outdoor enthusiasts and residents of snowy regions, Subarus are practical and capable but have some well-documented engine issues that buyers should be aware of.
3.5/5
Reliability Rating
$617/year
Avg. Annual Repair Cost
4
Models Covered
Subaru vehicles have average reliability. Some models are excellent while others have known issues — model selection is important.
Subaru's boxer engines are notorious for external head gasket leaks. The 2.5L EJ25 engine uses a multi-layer steel gasket that can fail, causing external oil and coolant leaks.
Years affected: 1999-2011
The newer FB25 2.5L engine can consume excessive oil between changes. Subaru extended the warranty for some affected models.
Years affected: 2011-2017
Subaru's Lineartronic CVT can exhibit shuddering, hesitation, and premature failure. Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles.
Years affected: 2012-2019
1995-present
The Subaru Outback is a lifted wagon that combines car-like handling with SUV-level ground clearance.
1998-present
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV with legendary visibility, standard AWD, and practical cargo space.
2013-present
The Subaru Crosstrek is a lifted Impreza that's become one of Subaru's best sellers.
1993-present
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car with standard AWD — unique in the segment.
Subaru 2.5L engines use timing belts. Replace every 105,000 miles along with the water pump. The 2.0L FA20 (BRZ/86) uses a timing chain.
Subaru 2.5L EJ25 engines (1999-2011) are notorious for external head gasket leaks. It's a when-not-if repair. Budget $1,500-$3,000 and have it done proactively if buying a used Subaru.
Subaru rear brake calipers are known for seizing, especially in rust-belt states. Regular slide pin lubrication helps.
Subaru wheel bearings are a known weak point, especially on older Imprezas and Foresters. They often need replacement by 80,000 miles. Budget $200-$450 per wheel.
Subaru CVTs need fluid changes every 25,000-30,000 miles — much sooner than the 60,000-mile recommendation. This dramatically extends CVT life.
Subaru AWD systems have 4 CV axles. Inner CV joints can develop a clunk when shifting due to the AWD system. Budget $200-$400 per axle.
2018-2020 models from multiple Japanese manufacturers are covered under the Denso fuel pump recall. The fuel pump impeller can crack, causing stalling. Check NHTSA.gov for your specific vehicle.
Subaru AWD systems require all four tires to match in circumference. Replace all four tires at once, or match the tread depth of existing tires within 2/32 inch.
Subarus are excellent vehicles for AWD capability and practicality, but know the engine generation you're buying. The 2012+ FB25 engine fixed the head gasket issue but introduced oil consumption. The 2019+ models seem to have resolved both issues. Best value: 2018-2021 Crosstrek or Forester with the FB25 — prices are reasonable and the CVT warranty covers you. Avoid 2005-2009 Outbacks and Foresters with the EJ25 unless head gaskets have been replaced.