8.7

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$2,500
Average Mileage:
124,350 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. replace head gasket (3 reports)
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problem #3

Jan 012022

Outback 2.5L H4

  • Automatic transmission
  • 130,000 miles

Head gasket is leaking a lot of oil on both sides and it cost $2700. This job requires pulling the entire engine out and had the timing belt & water pump done at the same time. I had the issue diagnosed by Subaru of America and fixed by a third-party shop.

- Zach S., Bellevue, NE, US

problem #2

Oct 112016

Outback 2.5I L 2.5L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 130,000 miles

Subaru said they've fixed the HG Issue(s) but obviously not. It also consume(s) 1-2 Qt(s) between OCI.

- Steven A. B., Canton, GA, US

problem #1

Nov 082012

Outback 2.5L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 113,000 miles

My complaint is I have a 2008 Subaru Outback that I paid good money for and still paying for and now have to pay $2000 to get a head gasket replaced and the car only has 113,000 miles on it! After researching the internet it apparent this is a common problem with Subaru's and I think it sucks! I have a 1995 Civic Honda with 260,000 miles and have never put more than $700 - $1,000 into this vehicle.

Subaru should fix these cars for nothing and stand behind the fact they put sh*tty head gaskets on the cars from the factory (probably made in China). The vehicle I purchase I expect to get more than 113,000 miles on an engine before having to pay $2000 to have it fixed! I take good care of my vehicles doing all the preventative maintenance when it's due, I am not some idiot who doesn't take care of them. It's evident having a 1995 car with 260,000 miles and still running like a champ! Thank goodness because that's what I have to drive now while my 2008 is getting fixed!

I really like the car it's great in the snow, I drive 100 miles a day to work, it's great for that, but having this major problem at 113,000 miles I don't think I will ever purchase another one.

- Julie S., Baraboo, WI, US