The Subaru Outback is a popular option in the small SUV market, and as one of the only station wagon-style vehicles on the road, it’s a compelling option. However, the 2011 Outback has several problems that could leave owners with expensive repair bills over malfunctioning airbags, blown head gaskets, and failed engines.
Key Points
- The 2011 Subaru Outback is susceptible to head gasket failure, especially models equipped with the 2.5L four-cylinder.
- Drivers have reported that the Outback will stall after coming to a stop. The problem has been diagnosed as a torque converter issue, which can cost around $1,600 to fix.
- The 2011 model has had numerous recalls related to the airbags. Prospective buyers should ensure the car they are purchasing has had the necessary repairs and replacements made.
- Burned-out headlights, cracked oxygen sensors, and parking brake problems add to the list of the Outbacks issues.
- Buyers may want to avoid the 2011 Outback in favor of a less problematic model or a more traditional SUV.
Infamous Subaru Head Gasket Failure Can Lead to Major Motor Damage, Possibly Even Require an Engine Rebuild
Many Subaru models, including the 2011 Subaru Outback, are susceptible to head gasket problems. The issue is particularly common on the 2.5L four-cylinder that is found on three of the Outback’s trim levels.
The initial problem likely stems from the quality of the head gasket’s material, which wasn’t changed until 2014. Subaru’s built before that time can experience blown head gaskets, which can cause major engine damage.
At the very minimum, the head gasket will need to be replaced, and the fluids changed. Repair Pal shows the average cost for head gasket replacement is between $1,808 and $2,098.
However, if the problem is not caught soon enough, the cost could be significantly higher due to additional damage. In instances where further damage was caused, the price of rebuilding the engine could be as much as $4,000.
Transmission Problems on the 2011 Outback May Result in Expensive Repair Costs as High as $6,000
The 2011 Subaru Outback has over 500 registered complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and many relate to transmission issues. Drivers report that when at slow speeds or at stoplights, the engine will stall or lose power.
One driver states that their problem was diagnosed by a dealership as a torque converter issue, and replacing the part solved the issue. According to this Subaru Outback forum, users say the price of having the torque converter replaced is around $1,600.
Additionally, drivers have also experienced problems that lead to complete transmission failure. The repair for this problem could cost nearly $6,000, according to Kelley Blue Book.
It is worth noting that the recall issued regarding the transmission on the 2011 Outback does not cover these problems, as the recall covers manual transmission Subaru models.
2011 Subaru Outback Has Nine Airbag-related Recalls, All Concerning the Same Problem: Inflators That May Rupture During Deployment
Of the model’s 16 issued recalls, nine relate to Takata-made airbag inflators that may rupture upon deployment. Essentially, the propellant used in the inflation process could degrade after prolonged exposure to heat and humidity and then explode during deployment, sending metal shrapnel toward occupants.
The first batch of recalls went out in 2016 to replace the defective inflators with new ones. Unfortunately, in 2020, another batch of recalls was issued to replace them again for the same issue.
The 2011 Outback has 70 airbag-related owner complaints registered against it, and most concern this same airbag problem.
Headlights Burning Out Prematurely, Vehicle Rollaway, and O2 Sensor Failure Spark Complaints From Owners, Who Report the SUV Feeling Sluggish
According to Car Complaints, dozens of 2011 Outback owners have reported that the headlights have burned out prematurely. Some say the problem occurs after a couple of years and happens every few months. The typical cost of replacing the bulbs is reported to be about $110.
Through Repair Pal, owners have also mentioned issues with the front O2 sensor. This is a common issue on several Subaru models and can cause the check engine light to activate as well as result in the car running poorly and feeling sluggish.
Manual transmission Outbacks also reportedly have a problem with a faulty electronic parking brake that may not engage as intended, allowing the SUV to rollaway if the transmission is not in the proper gear when parked. This problem prompted a recall in 2018.
2011 Subaru Outback You May Want to Consider Other Options in the Small SUV Market
Though the 2011 Subaru Outback was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the SUV is known to encounter expensive problems with the drivetrain, and there have been some serious airbag reliability issues that have prompted recalls.
Because of this, interested buyers should either look for a less problematic model year or seek out a different SUV altogether, such as a 2011 Ford Escape.
Photos: Subaru
