If you’re ready to add a Subaru to your lineup, it’s good to know that they were all designed for dependability. Although there have been many changes since the first Boxer engine arrived on the scene, reliability has never plummeted. But that doesn’t mean problems cannot come up on occasion.
What are the most common Subaru engine problems on record, you might ask?
This carmaker has been making four-cylinder engines since the sixties, so there are quite a few, like:
- Engine stalls while driving
- Rapid oil consumption
- Hesitation during acceleration
- Unexpected surge forward from a stop
Fortunately, in this piece, we will describe all those Subaru engine problems and more. Using that info, you can go into the car buying process well informed and ready to make the best purchase decision possible.
All About Subaru’s Long Line of Engines
When Subaru first arrived in the United States, they aimed to pit their 360 against the Volkswagen Bug. With its two-cylinder, air-cooled engine, it was a formidable foe. Despite that, they quickly changed course with the creation of their iconic four-cylinder Boxer engine.
Initially installed in the 1000, this engine paved the way for greatness through the years. Although it has kept its horizontally opposed configuration, the Boxer has gone through many evolutions since its creation. Modern variants come in 2.0L, 2.4L, and 2.5L displacements and are either naturally aspirated or turbocharged from the factory.
As Subaru vehicles grew in size, they eventually decided to take that configuration and make a six-cylinder version. They put their six cylinders in select vehicles at first, including the XT and XT6. Today, it’s available as an upgrade in the Outback and Legacy models.
Most Common Subaru Engine Problems
Subaru engine problems range from minor inconveniences to catastrophic issues that require prompt attention. But it can be hard to tell anything has gone awry if you don’t know what to look for.
Thankfully, you can use this guide to learn about the most common problems to keep on your radar during the car buying process.
Engine Goes Through the Oil Fast
The 2.5L engine in the 2015 Subaru Outback goes through the oil faster than you might expect. About 2,000 miles into your oil change interval, the low oil alert comes on, letting you know of the problem. There’s no real fix, so you just have to top it off often.
Motor Stalls While Driving
The 2017 Forester’s 2.5L powerplant has the tendency to stall as you try to accelerate up to speed. This issue occurs most often while driving up a hill or turning in either direction. Techs cannot track down the issue at this time, leaving you without the ability to repair it.
Hesitates While Getting Up to Speed
While accelerating from a stop, the 2.5L motor in the 2014 Outback hesitates and fails to get up to speed. The car may not even move for up to five seconds after hitting the gas. Cleaning the injectors, using higher octane gas, and other fixes fail to resolve the problem.
Strange Noises
While driving the 2014 Subaru Outback, the 2.5L engine may start making strange humming noises from time to time. Technicians cannot arrive at a consensus on what’s causing the problem. They often point to loose belts, bad AC compressors, and pulleys in need of replacement.
Unexpected Acceleration
On many Subaru vehicles, just a light tap on the gas can cause the car to surge forward unexpectedly. If you’re too close to another vehicle when that happens, it could result in an accident. There’s not currently a solution for this issue as it’s difficult to pinpoint the problem.
