2.3

hardly worth mentioning
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
66,525 miles

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problem #6

May 232008

Outback

  • miles
Overheating, blown head gasket.

- Salt Lake City, UT, USA

problem #5

Jun 142007

Outback 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 85,000 miles
'97 Subaru Outback wagon impeccably maintained 85,000 mi is overheating. Began as intermittent problem approx 5 months ago. Flushed radiator, repl cap, pressure tested radiator. Driving down hill on mountain road in morning cold, overheats after about 6 miles. Repl thermostat, water pump, timing belt. Subaru dealer repair mechanic says head gasket. Googled problem online before replacing thermostat. Blogs from Outback owners with same symptoms say head gasket. An incredible number of blogs describing the same problem and statements that Subaru has never taken responsibility for this flaw which has affected so many Outback owners. This is a crime.

- Idyllwild, CA, USA

problem #4

Mar 162006

Outback 4-cyl

  • Manual transmission
  • 74,624 miles
Blown head gasket 1997 Subaru Outback legacy.

- Westport, CT, USA

problem #3

Feb 212006

Outback 4-cyl

  • Manual transmission
  • 111,000 miles
1997 Subaru Outback 2.5 DOHC engine 1) car was suddenly leaking anti-freeze, brought it in to shop asap 2) head gasket busted, ruined the engine 3) needed to replace most of engine, including block checked other sites, this seems to be a hugely common problem with Subaru 2.5 DOHC engines and they aren't doing anything about it.

- Windsor, CO, USA

problem #2

Feb 052004

(reported on)

Outback

  • Automatic transmission
  • 60,000 miles
The engine seals of the main cam shaft failed and caused the engine to leak oil. The dealer replaced the seals and the timing belt.

- Grosse Ile, MI, USA

problem #1

Mar 122001

Outback 4-cyl

  • Manual transmission
  • 68,526 miles
2.5 liter engine block cracked, causing repeated instances of overheating requiring stopping in dangerous traffic situations and eventual replacement of block at owner expense.

- Winchester, MA, USA