Are you ready to become the proud owner of a Subaru? Regardless of what you’ve heard about their reliability, you should always do your own research to make sure there aren’t any glaring problems.
What are some common Subaru problems?
According to owners, the ones that come up most often include:
- Head gasket failure
- Excessive oil consumption
- Hesitation while accelerating
- Failure of the rear coil springs
- Surge in acceleration from a stop
Fortunately, in this article, we will explore all of these Subaru problems and many more. You will then have the information you need to make the best buying decision as you browse through all the vehicle ads.
Subaru’s Commitment to Success Worldwide
The first Subaru to hit U.S. shores in 1968 was the 360. It was built to rival the Volkswagen Bug, but it really didn’t wow the crowds.
So, they went back to the drawing board and came up with the sweet little FF-1 for 1970. This is the first car to receive their iconic boxer engine and front-wheel-drive configuration, setting the stage for the fantastic builds to come.
In 1975, they completed their formula for success by releasing the 4×4 Wagon with four-wheel drive. Using that formula, they’ve continued to push the envelope in creating powerful and surefooted vehicles that everyone can love.
Their lineup always includes adept utilitarian models that promise to accompany you on all your adventures, plus high-performance street cars with the looks to match. With their commitment to building fantastic vehicles of all kinds, they have gained an enormous following of loyal enthusiasts.
10 of the Most Common Subaru Problems
Subaru problems can appear at any time, but they are most common as you start to put a lot of miles on the vehicle. Here’s a look at some of the biggest issues you might come across through the years.
#1: Head Gasket Failure
Across all models, Subaru head gaskets are prone to failure, especially after allowing your car to overheat for any length of time. A hole in the radiator, stuck thermostat, or broken cooling fan can all leave the sensitive gasket in tatters. Other times, the gasket fails for no apparent reason.
#2: Transmission Damage
The CVT transmission installed in the 2011 Subaru Outback and similar models often fail before reaching 100,000 miles. When that happens, all the dash lights come on and the engine stalls. At that point, the only options are replacing it with a new one or paying for a rebuild.
#3: Rapid Consumption of Oil
Subaru vehicles equipped with the 2.5L engine typically experience excessive oil consumption. Owners report that they have to top off their oil every 1,000 miles. Techs can do an oil consumption test to gauge the problem’s extent, then either rebuild or replace the engine if it’s bad enough.
#4: Rear Coil Springs Come Apart
The 2014 to 2015 Subaru Forester often has defective rear coil springs that come apart without warning. The failure can happen while driving and when parked. Replacing the factory springs with new ones from a different manufacturer can resolve the issue in full.
#5: Poor Handling in Icy Conditions
Although Subarus are generally known for their surefootedness in all weather conditions, the 2013 XV Crosstrek doesn’t share that reputation. While driving this vehicle in icy weather, it has shown a tendency to fishtail and even spin out. An alignment can help, but it’s not guaranteed to fix the issue.
#6: Unexpected Acceleration Speed
The 2012 Subaru Impreza with the 2.0L engine has a record of quickly accelerating from a stop while lightly pressing the gas pedal. Many people have ended up in minor to severe collisions as a result. In most cases, technicians are unable to track down the cause.
#7: Hesitation at Low Speeds
While taking off, the 2014 Subaru Outback intermittently hesitates, momentarily leaving you without the ability to accelerate. The problem can reoccur at 20 to 40 mph as well. Since it only happens on occasion, technicians cannot always replicate the problem, which leaves the cause a mystery.
#8: Clutch Goes Bad Fast
When equipped with a manual transmission, the 2015 Subaru WRX could end up needing a clutch earlier than normal. The factory clutch often wears out after just 20,000 miles, resulting in the need for a new one. Getting a clutch from a trusted aftermarket company resolves the issue.
#9: Wheel Bearing Wear
Wheel bearings should last over 100,000 miles before needing replacement. The ones used on the 2013 XV Crosstrek, however, do not last nearly that long. Some have even failed with around 40,000 miles on the odometer. Although technicians can replace them, the new ones are likely to fail prematurely, too.
#10: Paint Comes Off in Flakes
With proper care, you can expect your automotive paint to last for years without losing its shiny finish. On the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, that’s simply not the case. With less than 50,000 miles on the clock, its paint may start flaking away no matter how well you care for it.
Photos: Subaru
