Subaru Outback Years to Avoid

Why 2019 and 2020 made the avoid list

2019 Subaru Outback

AvoidTop issue: visibility · 44% of complaints · median 11,000 miles

Owners describe 2019 Outback batteries repeatedly draining or dying and leaving them stranded, windshields cracking with little or no apparent impact, and EyeSight braking or steering unexpectedly. Many say dealers replaced batteries, glass or head units without a lasting fix, and some report warranty coverage denied for the glass.

Full 2019 report ›

2020 Subaru Outback

AvoidTop issue: visibility · 45% of complaints · median 6,000 miles

Owners describe the 12-volt battery draining and the car failing to start, plus screen freezes and sudden stalling or power loss with warning lights, sometimes linked to the thermo control valve. Many also report windshields cracking and spreading rapidly, with dealers often blaming rock strikes and declining warranty coverage.

Full 2020 report ›

Questions owners ask

Which Subaru Outback years should you avoid?

Counting complaints owners filed with NHTSA in each year's first five years on the road, per vehicle sold, the 2019 and 2020 Outback drew the most: each more than twice the rate of a typical Outback year, spread across more than one problem area. The 2017 and 2018 also ran above average; use caution with them.

What is the best year for a used Subaru Outback?

The 2009 Outback drew the fewest complaints for its time on the road and the number sold (0.3× the rate of a typical Outback year), followed by the 2012 and 2014. Years from 2022 on haven't had five years on the road, so they aren't rated yet.

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Outback?

Across every year, the problem area owners report most is visibility (glass, wipers, mirrors) (35% of complaints), followed by the electrical system (25%) and the engine (6%). A complaint can name more than one area.

Has the Subaru Outback been recalled?

Yes. NHTSA lists 55 recall campaigns covering Outback model years 2008 to 2026, the most recent in March 2024. Enter a vehicle's VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to see whether its repairs were done.