2011 Subaru Outback Review: Good Year For The Reliable And Affordable Wagon

Alex Showalter
Mar 17, 2022

The 2011 Outback lasts up to 300,000 miles with headlight and rare transmission issues. At $9,117 – 11,484, it’s a good value for the build quality and dependable engines.

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likeFilled The Good
Passenger room is excellent, the all-wheel-drive system is better than rivals and interior materials are high quality.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The base engine is weak, advanced technology is only available on the expensive models and the cabin is noisy.

Is the 2011 Subaru Outback a Good Used SUV?

  • Yes, 2011 is a good year. We have received a lot of positive owner reviews mentioning a spacious cabin, good efficiency, and low ownership costs.
  • Reliability ratings are good. There are some issues with headlights and rare transmission issues. We recommend Outbacks from 20102012, avoid the 2013 with engine problems.
  • Performance is weak on the base four-cylinder engine but much better on the optional V6.
  • The Outback is a safe SUV, getting four out of five stars in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick Award.
  • Fuel economy is excellent at up to 24 mpg combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Brenda C
Practical reliable Subaru outback.
I love my Subaru because it is reliable, great in rain or snow due to the AWD, fun to drive with a 6 speed manual transmission. I drive a lot, delivering meals on wheels, so I need something fun. Very practical size, comfortable seats. We have owned a Subaru or 2 for over 30 years because they are a great consistently reliable brand.
accountCircle Katelynne H
Everything’s great except the warning lights.
My car has been great! It has really good pick up. I love the leather interior. The rear view camera is really helpful. The only issue I have noticed is some of my emergency lights will turn on for no reason. Nothing is wrong with my car they just turn on.
accountCircle Sarah S
The outback is the perfect camping companion!
I absolutely love my Subaru outback! I haven't had any problems with it, and it runs like a champ! The all wheel drive is awesome for Utah winters. Plus, the size of the outback allows me all of the cargo space I need to take my boyfriend, our three dogs, and all of our camping gear for week-long adventures into the wilderness!
accountCircle Bethany P
The sound system is really nice. It goes very loud with great detail.
My car is super reliable drives great and gets excellent gas mileage. It has soft interior, with heated seats with different heat settings. The radio works really well and has a top model sound system. The only problem has been with the head gaskets.
accountCircle Sean M
Subaru is great - do not miss out!
Love the car, we've had no problems that are not to be expected. It goes through pretty much anything and even when there is a problem it is easy enough to fix myself. I have had many Subarus and will likely continue buying more, especially if they bring back the Baja.
accountCircle Kristy J
The perfect family vehicle.
The Subaru outback is a great car. It is very reliable. There is also a lot of space for passengers and luggage. We go on 4 to 5 trips a year and it is perfect for our family of four to travel in. My husband has driven many vehicles and he says the outback is the best one for snow.
accountCircle Josh R
Great car! Would recommend to a friend.
I have really enjoyed owning my Subaru outback. It is a very reliable car and I have no complaints regarding it is reliability. My one complaint was that the torque arms have worn out multiple times which have been a costly fix. Other than this issue, it is a great car with great gas mileage.
accountCircle Katrina D
This is a car I am proud to own.
This is my very first car and I'll add that I do not know that much about cars, but that said, I am very happy with this car. For me, it is the perfect size - small enough so that it does not feel like a clunky SUV, but also large enough to have plenty of legroom and cargo room. I have had it for almost a year now, and in that time I have taken it on many long-ish distance trips. Each time, it has gotten us to our destination safely and reliably. It has great gas mileage for a car that size, and it has handled snow-covered, icy, and wet roads with no problem at all. It may not have all the fancy features of newer models, but it has all the essentials to make it a comfortable ride. Sometimes I wish it had things like back-up cameras or even just a moon roof or tinted windows, but one can do without them. I cannot really think of any problems I have with it. If there are any problems, they are minor and not really noticeable.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Virginia N
It's an expensive but fun beast to drive.
Have had my car 2 years and have had to replace the driver side ball joint 4 times, rear drive shaft, control arms 2x now. Other than the constant repairs, I love my car. I would buy a new Subaru if given the chance. It's a beast in the western New York winters.
accountCircle Ashten M
Subaru outback: a major let down.
The vehicle has lots of blind spots. That is the biggest issue. The back up camera does not work all of the time and neither does the radio controls on the steering wheel. The vehicle is comfortable to drive. The car is long and does not fit in my garage.
accountCircle Laura B
It needs to be properly maintained in order to keep in working order.
It has had some mechanical issues. We needed to get a new transmission. Otherwise. It has been a very good car.
accountCircle Mackenzie C
Safe and reliable Subaru outback.
A Subaru outback is a very reliable car. I always feel safe in the vehicle and it is a well enough known car that if I take it into a shop I am confident that any issues will be solved. I drove it halfway across the country and it was great. There are 78,000 miles on the car and I still believe it will last me a lot more years into the future.
accountCircle Corinne W
Great overall- watch the head gasket!
I overall really enjoy my outback. I did have to do some pretty major repairs, but it is a 9 year old vehicle. I don't love that there is not an engine temperature dial on the dashboard. Head gasket problems may not have gotten as bad as they were if I was able to monitor it.
accountCircle Oliver P
A reliable Subaru outback that can carry you anywhere!
I absolutely love the drive of this car as it feels safe without being hard to maneuver. It has a sunroof, seat warmers and leather interior that is easy to clean. Although there is no Bluetooth the sound system is excellent. I get approximately 20 miles per gallon so my trips round out at 400 miles consistently.
accountCircle Jon B
Great overall vehicle for an individual that needs to commute for work.
It is a very reliable car. No major problems have been encountered and sitting at 120k miles. The front heated seats are. Comfortable for short or longer rides. It does sit low to the ground so slightly harder to get in/out of for a 6’2” male. Good gas mileage 24-26ish.
accountCircle Anthony M
It is chrome grey, with a blue windshield. It has holders on the top.
The motors get stuck every other year or so, and for some reason when it rains, water gets into my car, about an inch, sometimes. Other than that, the vehicle is completely reliable, and is better than most vehicles on the market of 2011, and for a good price.

What Do Critics Say About the Outback?

  • Consumer Reports finds the Outback to be quiet and spacious with above-average owner satisfaction ratings.
  • Edmunds rates the Outback 4.3/5, enjoying the safety features and interior, but finding the performance to be weak.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the outback a 4.3/5 with good safety, but say it doesn’t compete well against larger three-row choices.

What Common Problems Does the 2011 Subaru Outback Have?

Problems with the 2011 Outback include burnt-out headlights, stalling while braking, and rare transmission failures.

Headlight bulbs burning out prematurely are the most common complaint happening every 18,000 miles. The headlight controller tends to wear out bulbs faster than other cars. Replacing the bulbs costs about $100.

Stalling while braking is a problem mentioned by some owners at around 98,000 miles. The issue is caused by the torque converter and Subaru issued a technical service bulletin for the issue. Replacing the converter costs about $2,000.

Transmission failures are not as widespread as in other years, but do show up at around 105,000 miles. Only vehicles with CVT transmissions are affected by the problem. Replacing the transmission costs about $5,000.

There are 16 recalls including the transmission, moonroof glass, accessory lighting, remote engine starter, airbags, windshield wiper motor, parking brake, and ignition switch. The most serious recall is for the transmission since it’s the most expensive to replace.

How Long Will the 2011 Subaru Outback Last?

A properly maintained 2011 Outback will last up to 300,000 miles, similar to long-lasting competitors including the Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are estimated to be average at $646 per year, according to Repair Pal.

As an Outback reaches 150,000 miles owners should prepare to replace brake components for $250, drive axle assemblies costing $650, as well as batteries which cost around $200.

accountCircle Alexus S

Yes it is reliable. The main problem I come across is the sensor messing up often making all of my light come on for no reason.

accountCircle em b

I haven't experienced any issues with mine, and from my friends who own other Subarus they're pretty reliable.

accountCircle Aicha K

I will say it is reliable. It does not really have problems. I have not taken it to the garage since I got it.

accountCircle Sarah H

It is reliable. We do have one recurring sensor issue that we cannot resolve; but it runs super well and has no major issues.

accountCircle Barry R

I have never had any problems the outback. The Subaru outback is a very reliable vehicle. It gets very good gas mileage.

accountCircle Teresa B

The Subaru outback 2 5i prem awp is very reliable. I have never had a problem with the operation of the vehicle. Keeping up with regular maintenance insures my Subaru rings smoothly. I expect this vehicle to last as long as my last Subaru which I drove for over 200,000 miles.

accountCircle Carole D

No major issues. I personally do not like location of the cup holders and the turn radius is not the best, yet I wouldn't change for the world.

accountCircle Donna E

Yes it is reliable. I recently had a small problem but they always give you a rental while they work on your car.

How Much is the 2011 Subaru Outback Worth?

Blue book prices range from $9,117 – 11,484, making the Outback thousands of dollars cheaper than the Pilot and 4Runner. When new, the price range was $23,195 to $29,195. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Outback?

There are three main models of the Outback, and each is offered with either the four-cylinder or V6 engine. Technology is okay, but navigation is only available as an option on the Limited model. The last update was in 2010, with the next redesign coming in 2015.

2.5i is the entry-level model with:

  • 16-inch Steel Wheels
  • Cloth Seating
  • Automatic Headlights
  • Cruise Control
  • Four-speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With AUX Input

2.5 Premium adds some good features including:

  • 17-inch Alloy Wheels
  • Fog Lights
  • Power Driver’s Seat
  • Leather Steering Wheel

2.5i Limited is the luxury model adding:

  • Leather Seating
  • CVT Transmission
  • Dual-Zone Climate Control
  • Nine-speaker Harmon Kardon Stereo With Six-CD Changer and Bluetooth
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2.5i Prem AWP/HK Audio
170 HP 22 MPG
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2.5i Prem AWP/HK
170 HP 22 MPG
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2.5i Prem AWP
170 HP 24 MPG
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2.5i Prem AWP/Pwr Moon
170 HP 24 MPG
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2.5i Prem AWP/HK/Moon
170 HP 24 MPG
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2.5i Prem AWP/HK Aud
170 HP 24 MPG

What Engines Come In the Outback?

  • The standard engine is a relatively weak 2.5L four-cylinder with 170 horsepower.
  • An optional upgrade is the powerful 3.6L V6 which has 256 horsepower taking only 6.9 seconds to go 0-60.

What Colors Does the Outback Come in?

How Big Is the Outback?

The 2011 Outback is average for its class, but is similar to the CX-9, and Murano. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin with plenty of legroom in the backseats.

Cargo space is similar to many rivals with 34.3 cu. ft. of room behind the seats, increasing to 71.3 with the seats folded flat.

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How Does the Outback Compare to the Competition?

The Toyota Highlander is a competitor, which is about $5,000 more expensive. Where the Highlander stands out is with better technology, but the all-wheel-drive system is stronger in the Outback. The competition is close, but we recommend the Highlander since they are roomier.

Another rival is the Ford Flex costing $1,500 more. The Flex offers more seating and cargo room, but the Outback is more reliable. Overall, we recommend the Outback since they last longer and are more capable off-road.

Ranks #5 Midsize SUV by Owners

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4.82
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4.71
5
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4.58

Do Owners Recommend the Subaru Outback?

accountCircle Alexus S

Yes, my Subaru is a good vehicle. It is very reliable and good on gas. There are only a few drawbacks of this vehicle.

accountCircle em b

Yes! Very good for road trips, lots of space in the trunk. My friends and I love using the outback to drive out off road a bit to get to good hiking spots too.

accountCircle Aicha K

Yes it is. It is so easy to drive and really comfortable. It does not take to much gas. It is also really good for new drivers.

accountCircle Sarah H

Very good vehicle. Knock on wood, it has been a reliable, family and pet-friendly car for all our needs.

accountCircle Barry R

Very good car, I have never had any problems with my outback. It gets very good gas mileage and is great in the snow.

accountCircle Teresa B

The Subaru outback 2 5i prem awp is a very good vehicle. It is reliable in all weather. It handles rough of road conditions well. The all weather package makes driving the vehicle in cold weather a breeze. The side mirrors do not fog up and the front and rear windows defrost very quickly. The seat warmers are a treat on child days. The cargo size of the outback allows for hauling large loads.

accountCircle Carole D

I love my Subaru. As a nurse who does not have the option of 'snow days', it has always been a comfort that I could safely get to work. So, yes... It is a 'good vehicle'.

accountCircle Joseph V

Yes, it's the best car I have ever owned. It's eight years old and I have never had any issues with it.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Ken on November 25, 2022
Reliability of a 2011 Subaru Outback
I’ve read several of the reviews. Some are positive, some are negative. It is and has been a very reliable car. So far it had 200,000 miles on it. Yes, repairs have been needed. I have owned other Subaru’s. The repairs done to this car, are no different than other Subaru’s. Head gaskets and the CCVT transmission seem to rank as the greatest problem. The motor is easy to work on. The timing belt and pulleys can be replaced with the motor in the car. Timing belt replacement is a maintenance item. The motor can be removed from the car in under 2 hours. Head gaskets do need a professional to replace them. There are certain sequences that need to be done when removing and replacing the head gaskets. My mechanic used head gaskets for the 2.5L SOHC turbo motor , not for a normally aspirated motor. 100,000 miles later, no oil or coolant leaks. This car runs GREAT! As to the CCVT transmission, it did have a problem. A valve, not available from Subaru, was replaced in the transmission valve body. The issue was resolved. The transmission operates fine, without any issues and a great savings! I’m looking forward to the next 100,000 miles. Living in New England, snow is an issue. The all wheel drive system works great when driving in snow. 3 to 6 inches of snow is no problem for this car.
accountCircle Capecod on July 18, 2023
Be wary of CVT transmission issues
I would steer clear of this vehicle...CVT transmissions in general are junk at 100-150,000 miles and no rebuild parts available...$7-9K repair at dealer is your only option if you don't want to deal with a used part (and these are hard to find). You will NOT get 300,000 miles from a CVT unless you are very lucky
accountCircle Jared on July 7, 2023
Big P.O.S
My Subaru needed two transmissions in 6 years , one was under warranty and it lasted 20k when the that one went out they wouldn't replace it f@#$ Subaru would never buy one again . And tons of recalls , so I got a Toyota Tacoma .
accountCircle pradel lendy Jean baptiste on January 3, 2023
Are subaru outback 2011 vs 2013 compatible
Are subaru outback 2011 vs 2013 compatible
accountCircle Emily D on June 24, 2021
I love my outback, holds great value, extremely safe, perfect sound system.
Although it needed a significant repair when I first bought it (a new head gasket, which was very expensive), my Subaru outback has been an excellent car. It gets better gas mileage than you would think and it is very comfortable to ride in. The Bose sound system and heated seats are my favorite little “perks” of the l.L. Bean edition trim.
accountCircle Greg H on June 13, 2021
I like my Subaru outback 2011.
This vehicle is comfortable for the driver. It is reliable, have had no major problems that have cost a ton of money to repair. Good for kids, pets, active lifestyle. Gas mileage is pretty good too. Some minor problems I have had probably have to do with age; power steering is an issue I need to look into. Turning the wheel on corners is a little tighter now. Had to get new tires recently, but that is to be expected. At over 80,000 miles it still run great.
accountCircle Terra B on June 8, 2021
Subaru outback, a rugged and reliable vehicle.
My Subaru outback is very reliable in all types of weather. The AWD helps me feel confident driving on icy and snowy roads. My outback had always performed well. Easily ascends steep hills, rough mountain roads, and water across roadways thanks to high ground clearance and protected undercarriage. The heated seats are a comfort in winter. The windows and exterior mirrors defrost quickly. Cabin temperature control is also quick and efficient. I have an older model that does not have navigation, connectivity to cell phone, safety warning systems, or back up camera, which I wish it had.
accountCircle Thomas D on June 6, 2021
Very useful car for transporting goods or people in all weather conditions.
I have had very few problems with the mechanical aspects of this car. It is very reliable and extremely good in the snow. The all wheel drive is extremely useful in the winter and helps in really rough weather conditions. The engine has very good pick up and makes getting up hills and passing people easy. When being taken in for maintenance the labor and parts are very cheap making it a very easy car to take to get fixed.
accountCircle Sam P on June 4, 2021
Subaru good car for people to get.
Good car can use in any situation that you want to. Snow. Rain. Does not matter great car. Depends on how much you want to pay for a car idk what’s best for you but it is a good car one time the oil needed to be changed got 87,000 miles on it only changed that oil once that is pretty good if you ask me.
accountCircle Amy M on June 3, 2021
Love my Subaru! Great for one or two people, not for a family.
Pros- reliable, compact and great handling. I drove this car for two years in New England with snowy weather and loved the control I had with the 4 wheel drive. For single person or couple, this car is great! Cons- not great gas mileage, small for a family of people, older so does not have bells and whistles like backup cameras.
accountCircle Molly G on May 30, 2021
It is a great car and I. Happy I purchased it.
Overall my car is great, but, the heat guard comes loose and frequently needs to be tightened. Eventually, I will have to replace the heat shield which will be somewhat expensive. My car goes great in the ice and snow. I always feel safe in it. I wish it had a remote start.
accountCircle Brenda C on May 25, 2021
Practical reliable Subaru outback.
I love my Subaru because it is reliable, great in rain or snow due to the AWD, fun to drive with a 6 speed manual transmission. I drive a lot, delivering meals on wheels, so I need something fun. Very practical size, comfortable seats. We have owned a Subaru or 2 for over 30 years because they are a great consistently reliable brand.
accountCircle ilene M on May 23, 2021
Subaru good all around vehicle.
Smooth quiet ride. Handle bumps in the road well. Has all the features I need. Great in the snow and rain. I like how far off the ground is the car. Moon roof good for air flow. Rain gutters are not very useful though. Do not like where the cup holders are located.
accountCircle Melissa G on May 21, 2021
Very reliable and handles well.
I bought the car brand new. I do regular oil changes and the suggested maintenance. I have never had an issue with the car. It handles well in the snow and heavy rain. I plan on keeping the car at least 5 more years. This. Is the only car I have ever bought brand new.
accountCircle Julia M on May 13, 2021
If I had to do it again. I would!
My favorite aspects of my car are its durability, all-wheel drive features, sound system, and storage. There have been several market recalls that I have had to address, and repairs on the sound system have been pricey, 10/10 would purchase again and plan to stick with Subaru for the long haul!
accountCircle Mark F on May 10, 2021
It is reliable, comfortable, and will last long for all typical needs.
No problems that are major. It is comfortable to ride, and great from just errands to long trips. Would like to have a Bluetooth access to phone to play music, and a little more sound proofing for the cabin to be quieter, and it would be perfect. It is a Subaru, so almost any road conditions it will handle well (even if you forget to put chains on the tires to drive through snow).
accountCircle Anna S on May 4, 2021
My Subaru outback is amazing!
I love my Subaru! I would recommend a Subaru to anyone who is looking for a safe, reliable, and attractive car! The next car I buy will be a Subaru ascent because they are the perfect for the kids. I have pig many miles on my car and haven't had any issues. Nothing mechanical has gone wrong. I have taken my car all over the place and she trucks through the whole way. I am so proud of my car and what she has gone through with me.
accountCircle Bri B on April 20, 2021
Subaru-safety and comfort in one.
It is 10 years old and runs great! No rust, minimal repairs until this year when we had to replace the thermostat. For 11 years old it is extremely dependable and I plan on handing it down to my son next year when he starts driving. I feel safe in it and is very comfortable to ride in plenty of room for me and all the kids and plenty of storage in the trunk too.
accountCircle Courtney L on April 3, 2021
Subaru Outback is a fantastic family car!! Safe and easy to drive!!
We really love our Subaru Outback! It is a fabulous family car, very safe and roomy for our family of four. I love the hatch back and the fact that the back seats fold down to allow more space for groceries, strollers or even my sons bike is great! It is all wheel drive so it handles really well in slick or wet road conditions which makes me feel safe when I have my two kids with me. The gas mileage is pretty good too since my husband travels a lot to work. The only negative thing we have experienced with this vehicle is the sunroof leaks when we first bought it, but it was easily fixed when they replaced the rubber seal. Other than that this is a excellent car! A must buy for family’s!
accountCircle Virginia N on March 31, 2021
It's an expensive but fun beast to drive.
Have had my car 2 years and have had to replace the driver side ball joint 4 times, rear drive shaft, control arms 2x now. Other than the constant repairs, I love my car. I would buy a new Subaru if given the chance. It's a beast in the western New York winters.
accountCircle Kassidy W on March 29, 2021
Wonderful car with great lifespan.
My Subaru is a wonderful car. It is has never broke down or had mysterious issues with it. A negative I will point out is that it burns oil faster than an average car and must have an oil change sooner than suggested. Also, another negative with Subarus is that there are not leather seat options available.
accountCircle Deanna M on March 28, 2021
It has great gas mileage and up to date technology.
It has great gas mileage and is comfortable to drive. There is lots of room for passengers and in the trunk. It drives great in the snow.
accountCircle Denise T on March 27, 2021
2011 Subaru outback vehicle review.
It is lasted me a really long time. However, recently it has started to randomly shut down when I stop at a red light or when I slow down (that is probably just due to old age, though). The car lasted me nearly 10 years. It is the perfect size for my family and has a nicely sized trunk. It is also very comfortable and definitely reliable.
accountCircle Aaron H on March 21, 2021
Cannot go wrong with Subaru.
The Subaru outback is a great vehicle. It has solid launch and acceleration. The handling of the vehicle is smooth as silk, thanks to the standard all-wheel drive. Gas mileage is great, even at 170, 000 miles; I usually average between 25 to 30 on highways and around 20 in the city. I highly recommend this vehicle for all drivers, but especially for new drivers who want a compact SUV. Great for traveling too.
accountCircle Vicki B on March 19, 2021
Subaru outback Great gas mileage
I haven't had any problems with my Subaru yet. Just the normal things such as needing new tires and front brakes. It's been a very reliable car. I currently have 85,000 miles on it. The mileage I get is unbelievable. Cost 300.00 going to Padre Island and back and all around Padre Island area. You cannot beat the gas mileage . It's a comfortable ride with plenty of room in the back for groceries, etc...
accountCircle Ruth C on March 15, 2021
It is definitely a great family vehicle and there’s plenty of room for the dog.
Very reliable, great for kids and dog, plenty of room for groceries, awesome safety features. I would buy another one. We've taken it everywhere. Great vehicle for road trips. Gets great gas mileage. Haven't had to replace anything but the tires and brakes.
accountCircle Jennifer J on March 4, 2021
I recommend my steady and sure outback.
I like my cars handling in bad weather - especially rain and snow. It is comfortable to sit in and drive - the height of it makes it easy to get in and out of. I have not done all of the recommended 'service at xx miles' but have done several. At around 125,000 to 130,000 miles I had many issues with the car - the most serious of which was an oil seal that failed and the car lost all of its oil. Thankfully I was near a parking lot. The bigger disappointment was how the dealership dealt with the situation, but that was not the car's fault! Overall, I recommend my Subaru outback as reliable, steady, and safe to drive.
accountCircle Rachel S on March 1, 2021
That it's a really great vehicle and it has never done me wrong.
I like that it runs very well. I've never had an major problems with it. I like that it's good for some off-road driving. And I like that it's blue!
accountCircle Lainey W on February 28, 2021
It's bigger than it looks and has great storage space in the hatchback.
I really like the space in the back for storage. I feel safe in it. What I don't like it that it feels like you could easily lose control, like you could overcorrect too easily just by trying to stay on the road.
accountCircle Kayla W on February 24, 2021
I found the car that was meant for me for reasons I didn't even know I had.
I couldn't possibly be any happier with my outback. It is comfortable, spacious, never gives me a single problem and makes me feel so much safer than any vehicle I have ever had before it. I wouldn't give up this gem for anything; it is so easy to grow attached to the practicality and sleekness of the outback.
accountCircle Sam C on February 23, 2021
I love my subaru over all. I think the vehicle works well, is a great size, and is perfect for me alone and people when I drive. When it's windy I feel it
Safety is so important to me when I am looking for a car
accountCircle Trisha M on February 22, 2021
Great car - unreliable transmission.
I love this car! Great for outdoor adventures, tons of room for storage and passengers, and great on gas. Subaru extended the warranty on the transmission for this year car due to the CVT failing. If the CVT wasn't an issue, I'd say this is the perfect car.
accountCircle Peg F on February 21, 2021
I will buy another subaru.
It is comfortable. I like the 4 wheel drive.. I like the heated seats. I like the cargo space.. No complaints..
accountCircle Carole D on February 21, 2021
Safely gets through the worst of snow.
As a health care worker in New England, I have no choice but to go into work. Hospitals do not take snow days. My Subaru assures me that I will make it in safely. One time, I thought I had lost my lights. Found out, my lights were going below the snow and were blacked out. I was plowing the snow!
accountCircle Sarah H on February 21, 2021
Good for bad weather. Expensive to repair.
The car does very well in poor weather. The AWD does much better than any 4wd I have ever had. The downside of the vehicle is once it hit 120,000 miles, it has been in the shop every month. It is also very expensive to repair. They also do not have all of the features that other newer vehicles do have.
accountCircle Lynn A on February 20, 2021
The bluetooth setup is not great.
I love the big engine. It always gives me the power I need and more. It is also amazing in the snow. The bluetooth setup is awkward, but that is really my only complaint. The space in the back is great and very convenient when I need to purchase larger items.
accountCircle JANE A on February 18, 2021
This car is one of the safest on the road.
I like the handling and safety features especially in winter driving. I love the heated seats. I don't like the fact that when I roll down my side windows it doesn't clear them of snow, rain or fog like my Forester did.
accountCircle Rachel I on February 17, 2021
Great cargo and roof space.
It is great for space. I can fit kayaks, a canoe, bikes on top. The seats fold down and I can lug large things inside.
accountCircle Stephanie K on February 16, 2021
Love the red color, and sunroof.
No problems with vehicle, amazing breaks have had my car since 2015 and someone else had the car since 2011. Amazing interior just with the speaker was Bluetooth for music. Sunroof included but no navigation only got into fender benders but no major damage.
accountCircle Katey F on February 13, 2021
Comfort and style. Safe and reliable.
I have had no problems with this vehicle, it is very comfortable with heated seats, backup camera is in the rearview mirror, this makes it easy to use the mirror in conjunction with the camera. Gas mileage is fantastic. I feel safe in this car when taking my family on trips.
accountCircle Gregory W on February 12, 2021
Great gas mileage, I live in Ohio good for the snow,!
Well it's a Subaru witch is y I bought my 2011 Subaru outback all wheel drive Limited. I don't know what to say other than what people know reliable, strong,long lasting, styling,and who don't want a wagon. Beem a great vehicle expect it lasts me many many years!
accountCircle Ashten M on February 11, 2021
Subaru outback: a major let down.
The vehicle has lots of blind spots. That is the biggest issue. The back up camera does not work all of the time and neither does the radio controls on the steering wheel. The vehicle is comfortable to drive. The car is long and does not fit in my garage.
accountCircle Katelynne H on February 9, 2021
Everything’s great except the warning lights.
My car has been great! It has really good pick up. I love the leather interior. The rear view camera is really helpful. The only issue I have noticed is some of my emergency lights will turn on for no reason. Nothing is wrong with my car they just turn on.
accountCircle Chelsea L on February 9, 2021
Great smooth off-roading car.
The car itself is a bit loud while driving but still is great to drive around. Smooth on the highway and holds up while off roading. This is a great car and after 9 years the ac has just started needing to be replaced. The color is great and the seats are comfortable and automatic. I would absolutely recommend this car to anyone and everyone.
accountCircle Linda S on February 6, 2021
Subaru is a great, reliable car.
I love our Subaru Outback. It is extremely safe and reliable. It is also very comfortable. We bought this car because of the longevity of this brand, and we hope to keep it a really long time. Worth every penny (or should I say dollar).
accountCircle Nic B on February 3, 2021
It came with fancy rims and runner lights.
The window seals and back door are not great. Also, the sensors are a bit too sensitive. The care is extremely stable and comfortable. I love the rear view camera in the rear view mirror. I wish we did not have the lighter seats as they show their age.
accountCircle Corinne W on January 31, 2021
Great overall- watch the head gasket!
I overall really enjoy my outback. I did have to do some pretty major repairs, but it is a 9 year old vehicle. I don't love that there is not an engine temperature dial on the dashboard. Head gasket problems may not have gotten as bad as they were if I was able to monitor it.
accountCircle Kristy J on January 25, 2021
Great family car with plenty of space.
My family loves the Subaru outback. It is great and roomy for our family of four to go on long road trips. There is plenty of space for all of our luggage. We have had trouble lately with the electrical system. The windows will not open and close ( on the drivers side).
accountCircle Katie D on January 24, 2021
Subaru outback: a wonderful car!
This car is great — I love how it drives, the seats are comfortable, and the features are intuitive and easy to use. I fully intend to continue driving it for as long as possible and will always consider purchasing a Subaru when I am looking for cars in the future.
accountCircle Samuel S on January 19, 2021
My favorite part about my outback is the sound system.
I absolutely love my Subaru outback. It gets 30 miles to the gallon and is the most reliable car I have ever drove. It is my first car. I have only had it for about 3 years and I am not interested in getting another anytime soon. The car drives extremely smooth.
accountCircle Kelly R on January 18, 2021
I will likely never buy a car that is not a Subaru.
My vehicle performs really well in all weather. I take it out onto dirt roads in the mountains and in heavy snow/ice conditions and it always does well. I also love how much gear I can fit into the car. I have been able to use it as a work car when I worked at farmers markets and had to bring tables, tents, and boxes of goods. I can also sleep comfortably in it when I am in the backcountry.
accountCircle Abbey B on January 17, 2021
Love, it is what makes a Subaru a Subaru.
I love the speakers, heated seats, and all wheel drive. It is a great car for when it is snowing outside. Very comfortable. It is getting pretty old, so it does have some issues now. It is a little too big for a city car. Eventually I want something smaller. I wish it had a backup camera.
accountCircle Karina A on January 16, 2021
Subaru outback as a great family car.
Best car I have ever owned. Great gas mileage, and very spacious for my kids. There are numerous safety features, and the car is also extremely reliable. I love how spacious the trunk is, especially that it fits my double stroller with ease. The car was also decently priced, and the features that came with this particular package were well worth it.
accountCircle Judith L on January 16, 2021
Handsome and reliable car with relatively low mileage.
I bought this car slightly used. Have taken very good care of it. Just put on brand new all weather tires and put new brakes on even though I never had a problem with the brakes. I consider this car comfortable and reliable, driving about 5,000 per year - even now it has less than 90,000 miles on it. The color is forest green.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.