2013 Subaru Outback Review: Unreliable SUV With Transmission & Engine Problems

Sep 14, 2022

The 2013 Subaru Outback only lasts around 150,000 miles with serious engine and transmission failures. At $11,334 to $15,456, it’s too expensive when you’ll need to spend a ton of money on repairs.

The Good

Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system works great in the snow, visibility is excellent with minimal blind spots and the suspension is smooth.

The Bad

There are a lot of mechanical problems, ownership costs are higher than other SUVs and base engine is weak.

Is the 2013 Subaru Outback a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 5/10 – 2013 is a bad year for the Outback and deserves a low overall rating since there are widespread reports of engine and transmission failures. Owner reviews complain about motor issues, firm suspension, and excessive road noise.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are more durable than other SUVs, the seats are comfortable, however, the cargo space is smaller than average.
Reliability 4/10 – Overall reliability is terrible with blown engines and broken transmissions. Avoid models from 2013-2018 which suffer from the same issues. We recommend going with one from 2019-2022, which all have fewer complaints.
Performance 6/10 – The 4-cylinder engine is weak, while the V6 offers decent power for the size of the Outback.
Safety 8/10 – The Outback is extremely safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in all government crash tests, and 4-stars in the rollover risk assessment. It also has optional safety features like pre-collision braking and a lane departure warning system.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 26 MPG, which should get owners about 480 miles of range out of the 18.5 gallon gas tank. Fuel costs are $49/month cheaper than average at around $186/month.
Value 6/10 – The 2013 Outback is a bad value when there are so many expensive problems which have to be fixed as they age.

Positive Owner Reviews

Brit M

Subaru outbacks are great!

I absolutely love my Subaru outback. I have 2 kids and it is great for hauling bikes, strollers, whatever is needed. The backseat is very roomy and comfortable for the kids as well. They sit up higher and have a good vantage point outside. Driving the outback is comfortable and it runs well all the time. I feel extremely safe in it.

Rebecca S

I love my Subaru! It is a 5 star in my book!

I love my car! It is great on gas mileage which is a real plus! If you keep up with regular scheduled maintenance and regular oil changes the problems are minimal with this car! The only thing I dislike about my car is that on top of the steering wheel is a switch that turns the tail lights off and on sometimes getting accidentally hit cause issues while driving at night! I give this car 5 stars!!

Patty E

Subaru outback is an excellent car for road trips.

Very comfortable ride on road trips. Love the back up camera and heated seats. Wish it had a compass (our former Subaru had a compass and it is helpful). Also, wish we had chosen to have GPS. Also love having a moonroof. And the puddle lights are a brilliant idea! But it looks like every other car of its size and wish there had been other colors available. Love having leather seats. I will always choose leather seats over cloth.

Ashley R

Spacious & safe vehicle with great gas mileage!

The Bluetooth and radio sound system is great. The aux port sound is horrible and muffled. It is been very reliable. No breaking down. Seems to be a very safe vehicle. Backseat is very spacious. The seats recline all the way. The trunk is also very spacious and is great and comfortable for long trips. Seats heat up, which is very handy in the winter. Drives smooth. Great steering control.

Tess J

Great features, especially safety and those fun little add-ons.

This is the first car we've purchased with our own money. It was on a lease for 3 years before we purchased it and has many upgrades we were looking for. I personally enjoy the flexible space in back, heated seats with low or high heat in front, and the Bluetooth Audio. This car was in a head-on collision with a deer around 50mph last year and the safety features worked so well that nobody had serious injuries.

Beth W

Some good and bad qualities on 2013 Subaru Outback

The cruise control doesn't work sometimes but any time something is wrong or fluid levels are low an alert pops up on the dashboard and that is very helpful. It even alerts you if your tire pressure is low I love the heated seats they are great on cold winter days I also like that I have a rear view camera for backing up. I do have an issue with the quality of the speakers though they cut in and out

Riley C

Subaru outback: the only car I'll ever purchase (unless I can afford a tesla).

Super reliable, performs incredibly well in multiple terrains given the symmetrical AWD, especially on icy/snowy roads. A very comfortable ride, seats are adjustable in multiple ways so long car rides are comfortable. Seats are heated which is great for WI winters. I have had no issues with the vehicle in the 3 years I have owned it. Best vehicle I have had.

Deborah B

Subarus are practical cars.

I like the safety it offers in the rain, the heated seats, the ample storage space. No complaints.

Negative Owner Reviews

Joanne M

This is not the car that was advertised.

The car eats oil. I am constantly having to add oil. The dealership will not acknowledge the issue. Road noise is very loud. It does not get the gas mileage which Subaru promises. A factor which prompted me to buy the car in the first place. No room between the front seats and console. If something falls in between it hurts my hand to try to get it. It is very difficult to retrieve anything.

Dorothea

What has happened to quaility control at Subaru?

My 2013 Outback now has 137600 miles on it but it has had to have engine work done due to oil consumption. Subaru did so at their expense, then it was the airbag replacement, after that it was a watch on the transmission and parking brake. I hate to open my mailbox and see the next watch that is now no longer covered by Subaru. This is Subaru number 9 for me and I wonder if I can trust #10 when I buy in a few years. We drive our Subarus into the 275,000 range and expect that they will last that long. Since our 1998 we have not seen that longevity in our Subarus. They seem to be being built to fast and not really built well. Dorothea P

Taylor H

My 2013 Subaru outback is great on gas and it runs for a very long time.

I have had issues with it stalling whenever I go to take off. Good on gas and worth the price you pay. Very spacious and runs well. I feel safe putting my daughter in this car. I would recommend this car to people that have kids or travel for work. It is really great one gas.

Destiny A

The room in the car is amazing!

It is a very roomy car, perfect for me and my family, especially on road trips. There’s a large trunk where you can fit multiple suitcases, cages for when your taking your pet to the vet, groceries, almost anything you want. If you need more room there’s a handle on the back seats, pull the handle and the seats should fall for more room in the back of your Subaru outback.

Kelsey R

It eats oil. We have to put fresh oil in every few weeks and there's never any to empty.

I like that it's held up well over almost 6 years. I don't like that it burns through oil like crazy.

Nick R

The Subaru outback is outstanding

My Subaru outback is outstanding, it has been the most reliable vehicle I've ever purchased. It has needed very little maintenance, has fantastic fuel efficiency, runs smoothly, and gets up to speed quickly. I would recommend the Subaru outback to anyone in need of a midsize SUV.

Mariane R

This year of Subaru is a lemon?

It burns oil, has had a rod knock for 3 years, electrical issues it, plastic bumper pops off easily, and hard to change light bulbs. It is the worst Subaru I have ever owned. Due to electrical issues I have to replace wiring and headlights to have headlights. I have no dome lights and dash lights blink.

richard

Will not fix items had to pay to fix

Had 2 sun roof leaks.Paint is bubbling off.They say not their problem

What Do Critics Say About the Subaru Outback?

Consumer Reports says the 2013 Outback is not impressive to drive, and has average owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds gives the 2013 Outback a 3.8/5 praising the comfortable seats, however Edmunds doesn’t like the weak base engine.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Outback 4.3/5 and enjoy the efficient engine choices, but owners don’t like the low towing capacity for a midsize SUV.

What Common Problems Does the 2013 Subaru Outback Have?

The most common problems found on the 2013 Subaru Outback include engine issues, transmission failures, and excessive battery drain. Overall, these problems are more serious than issues found on other SUVs from 2013, and repair costs are higher than average as well.

Engine issues are the most widespread complaint from owners and usually show up as excessive oil consumption at around 55,000 miles. The source of the problem are rings, pistons, and even the block. Replacing the components costs about $1,600, depending on local labor rates.

Transmission failures are another serious problem, showing up at around 110,000 miles on many Outback models. The components in the transmission fail as the SUV ages, and have to be replaced. Changing out the transmission is very costly, at around $6,500.

Excessive battery drain also shows up on a lot of Outback models at around 25,000 miles. The source of the battery drain varies, however, issues with the computer and other electrical accessories are common. Diagnosing and fixing the issue costs between $100 and $1,200 depending on the source.

There are 12 recalls, much worse than other SUVs from 2013. The most serious recall is for the electronic parking brake, which can fail and let the vehicle roll away, and Subaru will replace the actuator for free. Other recalls include a lot for air bags, which are common on all makes and models.

How Long Will the 2013 Subaru Outback Last?

A well-maintained 2013 Subaru Outback will last around 150,000 miles, which is only half as long as top-rated competitors like the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than average, at around $634 per year, according to data from Repair Pal.

Since most 2013 Outback models will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace items including the fuel sending unit for $1,200, the ABS system costing $1,350, and the tire pressure monitoring system, which costs $180.

Charles S

So far so good. I haven't had a problem with it yet. I did have the spark plugs changed for peace of mind. I also purchased an extended warranty with the vehicle.

Noah B

It is a very reliable car if maintained correctly like all vehicle changing of fluids and maintenance are very important as always.

Krysta Q

Yes this car is reliable. I have not had it fail on me or have any problems. I also know that if it did have problems, the amazing people at the Subaru dealerships would take of it in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Janice R

Never had a problem. Very reliable. Great on gas. Handles curves and bumps. Would buy another. But wish it would be electric.

Paula M

I haven't owned it long, but it seems reliable. Cars from several years are affected by a transmission recall.

Kari S

I did purchase the car used, however, I have had difficulty with the evaporative emission control system-have replaced a variety of items in an effort to address the problem. Other than that, it is been a great car.

A D

Yes It's very reliable. No problems. As I said in the previous answer it just requires the basic maintenance. I recommend Subarus to friends all the time.

Christina S

Not that we have discovered yet. Other than the fact that there is a recall because the airbags need to be replaced because they are faulty, or something like that.

How Is the Technology?

Technology is very good for a midsize SUV from 2013 with standard Bluetooth connectivity and some high-fidelity stereo upgrades available. Optional safety features include Subaru EyeSight which offers adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning.

Is the 2013 Subaru Outback a Good Value?

No, the 2013 Subaru Outback is not a good value with the mechanical issues. Blue book prices range from $11,334 to $15,456, making it close in price to similarly equipped SUVs like the Honda Pilot and Nissan Pathfinder. When new, the price range was $23,495 to $32,095. Depreciation is similar to average, losing about 10% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Subaru Outback?

There are five models of the Outback available for 2013, including the base 2.5i all the way up to the powerful and luxurious 3.6R Limited.

2.5i is the entry-level model with:

16-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Power Windows & Locks
Cruise Control
Bluetooth Connectivity
4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX & USB

2.5i Premium is a step up, adding:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Power Driver’s Seat
Upgraded 6-Speaker Stereo System

2.5i Limited is next in the lineup with:

Leather Seating
Dual Zone Climate Control
Power Moonroof
Rearview Camera
9-Speaker Harmon Kardon Stereo System

3.6R adds features such as:

Larger Engine
Sport Suspension
Lower Exterior Body Panels

3.6R Limited is the luxury model and has:

Perforated Leather
Heated & Cooled Front Seats
Optional Navigation System
Optional EyeSight Safety System

2.5i

173 HP 26 MPG

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2.5i Premium

173 HP 26 MPG

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3.6R

256 HP 20 MPG

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2.5i Limited

173 HP 26 MPG

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3.6R Limited

256 HP 20 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Subaru Outback?

The base engine is the weak 2.5L 4-cylinder which makes 173 horsepower while getting up to 26 MPG.
A step up is the stronger 3.6L V6 which generates 256 horsepower and gets up to 20 MPG. Performance is average, taking 7.3 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH, but it can only tow up to 3,000 pounds.

What Colors Does the Subaru Outback Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Subaru Outback?

The 2013 Subaru Outback is very comfortable for an SUV with some well-cushioned seats and durable interior materials. There is a lot of plastic on the dash, which is similar to other SUVs in the same price range.

There’s enough space for 5 people in the Outback. Legroom is great in the back seats, and even taller passengers will feel comfortable.

How Is the Storage In the Subaru Outback?

Cargo space is worse than other midsize SUVs in the 2013 Outback with only enough space for 4-5 suitcases behind the backseats, or 10-12 with the seats folded flat.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The fourth generation of the Subaru Outback was introduced for the 2010 model year, and replaced by the fifth generation in 2015.

2011: Optional rearview camera available.

2012: Standard Bluetooth and optional 9-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo added.

2013: More efficient 4-cylinder engine, updated CVT transmission, and new safety technology.

2014: Standard heated seats on models above 2.5i Premium.

2015: Fifth generation released, full redesign with new engines, and upgraded interior.

2016: App connectivity with Subaru Starlink and crash notification system added.

How Does the Subaru Outback Compare to the Competition?

The Subaru Outback is one of the worst SUVs from 2013 and buyers should avoid it since there are more serious problems than the competition. We recommend staying away from Outback models from 2013-2018.

The Subaru Forester is another competitor from Subaru in the same price range. Performance is better in the Subaru Forester with more nimble handling, however, the Subaru Outback has more passenger space. We recommend avoiding both models for 2013 since they suffer from the same engine issues.

The Toyota RAV4 is another SUV which costs about $3,000 more. Reliability ratings are significantly better on the Toyota RAV4, but the Subaru Outback’s standard all-wheel-drive system is better in the snow. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since it will last much longer and has lower ownership costs.

Ranks #5 Midsize SUV by Owners

2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser

4.84

Tie

2013 Jeep Wrangler

4.62

2013 Subaru Outback

4.58

Do Owners Recommend the Subaru Outback?

Charles S

Yes. So far it appears to be a good vehicle. I had just recently purchased this vehicle and I have no complaints thus far.

Noah B

Yes, it is very roomy, spacious trunk, very good gas mileage averaging 21 mpg in the city, and has a decent bit of get up and go for only being a 4 cylinder.

Krysta Q

Yes, it is easy to drive and I feel safe when I am in it. I have had no problems with it which lets me know I can always count on it. Not to mention it is super stylish!

Janice R

Yes a great vehicle safe comfortable easy to park. God for long drives thru mountain passes and muddy roads.

Paula M

I purchased it pre-owned but I'd say yes in that the resale value is high which is reflective of the quality.

Kari S

I believe that the 13 outback itself is a good model, however, my particular car has caused me quite a bit of difficulty. That being said, the car is a tough car. It is good in the snow and really helps the people inside feel safe.

Mary G

Yes. It’s an awesome little car. I like the fact that I can drive it up and down my Gma’s mile long dirt road every day. It’s very sturdy. The Four Wheel drive means it takes a helluva lot for you to get stuck, which is nice. Especially in the winters.

Marilyn W

Yes very good. It's reliable and great in the snow. It never needs anything other than regular maintenance. I've had BMW's and went back to Subarus because Subarus don't break down.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

David on April 28, 2023

Very, very good car

Outstanding car. Reliability has been bombproof over 123k miles. The car is exceptionally capable in snow -- sure how the AWD system differs from other vehicles but it is highly effective. Handling is excellent. Very very pleased with it overall. Oil consumption is a little high (a quart every 1800-2000 miles) but that's the only tiny complaint I would have. Cavernous carrying capacity and drives beautifully. Mine has the 6-speed manual transmission and amazingly the car is still on its original clutch. Have been very careful to have all prescribed maintenance done, on time and using only OEM parts ... Hasn't been costly at all with the exception of replacing the spark plugs (owing to the design of the boxer engine, it took the mechanic considerable time to replace the plugs). Highway mileage is not bad ... About 27 ... But around town is nothing to write home about (approx 18).

Kim H. on November 14, 2023

Replaced Short block over 200,000 miles now

Definitely issues with my 2013 outback limited. I got the short block replaced after a failed oil consumption test at 99,000 miles. I now have over 200,000 miles on it but repairs are starting to pile on and are very expensive. Now I have to weigh the best option each time I bring it in. If the repair will last longer than what the cost of repairs will be in a “new” car payment, I have done the repair. So far that theory has worked. But now I have a new noise at 210,000 miles and will have to make the decision again, if it’s worth it

Bubba on September 13, 2021

Satisfied

I have 100,000 miles on my 13 outback. The only things I have done I’ve been oil changes, Replace the plugs, replace the brake pads, change the brake fluid and differential fluid. The car goes through bulbs like crazy! I replace more bulbs on this car that I have all my other cars combined that I have owned. But the dealers been pretty good. A few times they actually change them for no charge. Otherwise I have had no problem with it. I am satisfied owner. This is my third Subaru

Leslie O on June 25, 2021

It does everything and it very nice to drive.

It is a great car! When we didn't have a way of hauling our kayaks we were actually able to fit them inside the car plus it has served as our bed and our other stuff also, it has got us out of mud holes and has been on a wood hauler. It has not let us down. I love it.

Manuel P on June 16, 2021

A very sturdy reliable vehicle that is priced right. You will love it.

The Subaru is a 6 cylinder vehicle. Runs smooth and sturdy. One negative is that it consumes oil and is kind of noisy. It is an all wheel drive that hugs the road and can be taken off road without problem. The interior finish is classy with leather seats and premium audio. It does have a backup camera but it does not sore when you are getting too close to objects or other vehicles. The sunroof is a great option to have because it is great when opened and fresh air comes into the interior. Also great at night.

Mariane R on June 9, 2021

This year of Subaru is a lemon?

Kevin S on June 2, 2021

The best car anyone can ever own. Can do everything and everything well.

The reason I love my car is that it is safe, reliable, fun, practical, and capable. This is the first all wheel drive car I have owned and I’d never go back to a FWD car again. I also have a lot of respect for the brand and what they stand for. Overall, I’d never get another car.

Bri M on June 2, 2021

Subaru outback is safe and comfortable for families.

I absolutely love my Subaru outback. The seats are comfortable front and back and there is quite a lot of leg room both front and back. I have 2 children and the car seats fit comfortably in the back as well as room in the middle for their things. The hatch/trunk area is extremely roomy and can hold an impeccable amount of things, weather going camping to hold all your gear or just a trip to the park with the stroller and a picnic, it is perfect. I was drawn to the Subaru brand for their safety awards. Iowa winters can be treacherous with ice and snow covered roads and when I am driving my outback, I know it will get me to my destination safely.

joshlyn B on June 1, 2021

My vehicle is awesome. It is fairly new and runs super well.

There were a few problems with the transmission but I got it fixed. I just recently fixed the steering wheel issues. It used to make noise but it does not anymore. The car is super comfortable and easy to drive and it has nice features to it that make the drive so much better.

Joseph J on May 27, 2021

Subaru outback with connection issues, otherwise good.

Had issue with some connection. Would randomly die. It is really reliable besides that. Drove it across the country when I moved. I like the cruise control. I also like how smooth it is on the highway. Roomy and I like the leather seats. Good car, besides the 1 issue.

Jennifer G on May 20, 2021

Safe, reliable vehicle that can handle any terrain; spacious, hauls anything.

I have found this vehicle to be extremely reliable and safe. It allows me to haul all sorts of things around when I am working on improvement projects and my dogs go for rides regularly. It is spacious. I have no intentions of getting rid of it any time soon because it works for me. It gets great gas mileage as well.

Mike W on May 20, 2021

Strong performing vehicle, great for travel and recreational activities.

Overall I love this vehicle! It is very roomy and comfortable and definitely easy for travel. The Subaru outback has a strong performing engine that I am quite satisfied with. My biggest concern is that it uses a high grade performance motor oil and it needs to be refilled up to two times before an actual oil change is needed. It is been checked mechanically and turns out that they all pretty much do it.

Pronita F on May 2, 2021

Slightly used and in very good condition.

It still works. Good condition. Still drives in the highways, used it everywhere, everyday. Just need some renovations like the print and color of it is kind of faded and a have a little scratch both sides and I need to have a new one in the future if I can.

randy S on April 26, 2021

Great car for driving and exploring.

Great car. With over 100,000 miles on it I drove it cross counter to Montana. Out here where I live I get to drive limited or no maintenance roads daily. These roads are little more than paths and dirt through the badlands. Have not had so much as a flat tire with the vehicle since its purchase over a year ago.

Riley C on March 25, 2021

Subaru outback: the only car I'll ever purchase (unless I can afford a tesla).

Rebecca S on March 24, 2021

I love my Subaru! It is a 5 star in my book!

Scott S on March 23, 2021

My great Subaru is perfect for young drivers who like being active.

It has absolutely great handling in harsh conditions. It has pretty good braking and acceleration. It has okay gas mileage. It has good cargo space. I could go on forever on how much I love my Subaru. I highly recommend them to any young person as a first or second car.

Francisco C on March 21, 2021

Subaru the ultimate car for those who care.

I love my subaru, great performance, absolute great space, low cost maintenance, despite the years still looks very updated, for what I understand when properly maintained could go further than 250k miles, also I was surprised how much value it retains, it's not easy to get a second hand one cheap.

Tracey c on March 21, 2021

Subaru Outback, the dependable spacious family vehicle.

I absolutely love my Subaru. There is plenty of space on the interior for 4 people, including two teenagers, including luggage for a week away. I also like that the back seats recline a little bit. I haven't had issues with performance or reliability. The only challenge I have had recently is that the weather seal on the truck deck isn't working correctly, and water is coming into the car after rain storms.

Jacob C on March 19, 2021

A great, reliable car with one exception.

It's a very comfortable and reliable vehicle to drive. For an SUV, the gas mileage is also really good. The only problem, I would say, is that it tends to need an oil change more often than I would like. Especially since it tends to eat up oil faster than most vehicles. But other than that, a sweet ride.

Tenna W on March 16, 2021

It's a great car and built well. It gets me everywhere I need to go.

I have no complaints. I love the room it has. Works great for my dogs to be in the back.

Elizabeth C on March 13, 2021

This is a good sized vehicle with ample cargo and passenger room yet still gets excellent gas mileage. I can carry my two teenage boys and all their football & hockey gear with ease and hardly need to stop at the gas station.

The vehicle gets excellent gas mileage. The driver's seat is very comfortable and the controls are all easily reachable. The interior size is much larger than expected. The sound system is mediocre. The vehicle lacks acceleration severely making meeting into the highway a little difficult but overall I really like the vehicle.

Lori K on March 10, 2021

Safe and dependable outback!

The performance of the outback is exceptional. Lots of power, it has been a wonderful car in the snow this winter! The interior has great feature, lots of cup holders, dual climate control, room for cargo, the seats are. Very comfortable with lumbar support.. We haven't had problems, just a few little issues. We have a squeak in the hatch door when you open and close, and it seems to burn oil a little faster than other cars we have had. Which we found is common with this model. Overall great ride, good handling, many safety features over all great for our family.

Zach G on March 10, 2021

Easy to drive Subaru outback.

Very comfortable inside. Easy to drive and handles well in the snow. Biggest fault is it has a CVT transmission which it a bit loud when accelerating. Heated seats work very well in the cold. Back seats are easy to fold down to fit larger items. I have the pretty basic one with no Bluetooth or navigation but there’s inexpensive fixes for those all over the internet. I average about 26 mpg overall. The gas tank is huge so you can get at least 400 miles out of a tank. No issues besides a few light bulbs here and there. Other than that, regular maintenance is all it is needed.

Kai M on March 5, 2021

Subie love: it is what makes a Subaru my favorite!

I love my Subaru. The all wheel drive helps me commute with confidence all winter. I feel good supporting the company as they give back through different charitable initiatives and are committed to zero waste. It is a comfortable and stylish vehicle that is built to last a long time.

Ian G on March 1, 2021

2013 Subaru outback review.

No major issues with the vehicle as a whole. Pretty reliable with good gas mileage. Bit of a 'bumpy' ride in the back seat, but otherwise a smooth drive. Easy to handle in all weather conditions. Lots of storage room in the trunk for both traveling (suitcases) and grocery shopping.

barb m on February 23, 2021

I am buying a new one soon

It is good in snow. The heating and AC are great. It is comfortable to sit in. But it has no power, takes a long time to accelerate

Corynne Y on February 20, 2021

Love my Subaru, not so much the sunroof fender.

I really love my car. Initially, I. Thought it was a little loud as it was closer to the ground than the rav 4 I'd previously owned. But, otherwise, it is very comfortable, easy to. Maintain. The only other thing I am not a fan of is when it is windy, the sunroof plastic vendor thing makes a terrible loud noise. You cannot even here the person in the passenger seat speaking to. You.

Destiny A on February 18, 2021

The room in the car is amazing!

Trish B on February 14, 2021

Subaru outback- reliable, economical car.

Love it. It is reliable, gets good mileage and can carry a lot of people and many things. It is comfortable except that the seat belts are not made for short people. The passenger side airbag currently has a recall that will take 8 hours in the shop to fix. The moon roof and seat heaters are great.

Paul S on February 10, 2021

Reliable car. Can be used for any trip or for just running errands.

Love it. It is reliable. It has more than enough storage space. It is a great family car.

Fred F on February 8, 2021

Interesting car good for daily use.

I have had no problems with the vehicle. It gets me where I need to go and always starts up. It is comfortable but not luxurious. The heated seats are a big positive in the winter and the air conditioner is arctic cold in the summer. The only thing that bothers me is the cost of maintenance.

Jen M on February 7, 2021

Extremely reliable vehicle.

This was the only vehicle we had ever bought brand new off the assembly line. We opted for leather seats and the head DVD player. After 7 years we've never had any issues with this vehicle. We've only ever done regular maintenance such as oil changes new tires etc.. It's a very reliable very reliable car even after over 100,000 miles.

Taylor H on February 7, 2021

My 2013 Subaru outback is great on gas and it runs for a very long time.

MT M on February 4, 2021

Reliable in all weather: Subaru outback.

My 2013 Subaru outback 2. 5 limited gets me to work on time at my hospital job in any weather in the hills of upstate New York. Snow, rain, sleet, freezing rain, etc. Are inconveniences that I do not have to worry about because I drive my beloved Subaru outback.

Terri S on February 2, 2021

AWD handling in ice/snow is excellent feature in this vehicle.

Handles very well on ice and snow. Could be more comfortable seating and ride. Has issue with using oil in this model and year. Gets good gas mileage but I expected better.

Matt K on January 31, 2021

My Subaru outback features.

All wheel drive is great in the snow, you do not have to wonder if you should put the vehicle in four wheel drive or not. The features of the car are kind of plan, not a lot of amenities but there is just enough. The rack on top comes in handy for carrying object around and it able to hold a nicer rack if you want on.

Will D on January 26, 2021

Great car for friends or family.

A really great, reliable vehicle with plenty of room for up to 5 people to sit comfortably. The seats can be heated, which is nice in cool climates, and are fully adjustable. With the back seats down, we are able to load a small sofa in the back! The only real issue is our inability to access the headlights ourselves, as they are inaccessible without a mechanic. If one goes out, the other one will follow quickly, which can be dangerous. Otherwise, excellent mileage, good air and sound systems, and great bones!

Allyson E on January 16, 2021

Subaru outback consistently great performance.

I wanted an outback for years and finally bought one in 2015. I went for a 2013 model that was previously on a lease. I have had no major issues with the car. I got the car with 26,000 mi and have well over 150,000 on it now and it is still going strong. In that time I have replaced tie rods and of course brakes, and also the compressor for the air conditioner. ( note on the air conditioner, make sure you turn it off when you shut the car off. Starting the car with it on puts pressure on this unit) like any car if you keep up on your oil changes the car runs like a champ. I will note that the lights are a pain to change. The front headlights need to be put in by taking off the tire, so you will need to jack it up or have it done when you are getting serviced. I recommend buying the Subaru lights as they last longer and are noticeably brighter. I am really happy with the car. My husband loves the all wheel drive and sturdiness of the unit. He wants a Forrester after driving it.

Renee T on January 15, 2021

Great vehicle for the winter.

Reliability is great, runs great in the rain and snow. Comfort, has sunroof, heated leathers front seats, nice sound system, controls on steering wheel for volume, Bluetooth, phone, cruise control. Haven't really had any problems with it so far. Also has push button emergency brake and a hill helper.

Craig C on January 15, 2021

Subaru outback 2013 is safe and reliable.

My Subaru outback 2013 is very reliable and is definitely a safe vehicle I feel confident in driving with my whole family inside. It has plenty of room for everyone and some cargo. It is easy to clean and I would recommend it to a friend or family for purchase and use with their family and friends.

Ann R on January 12, 2021

Subaru outback is a car for everyone.

It is a great vehicle, very reliable, lots of room, all wheel drive. It is great for all weather, rain and snow. It is easy to drive. Has great safety features with eyesight. Has a backup camera which is great to have. It is a great car for road trips and camping. It is nothing fancy but I like my outback.

Don R on January 12, 2021

The Subaru outback is a great car to travel in.

The car is very comfortable. We wanted a car to use for long distance travel. This car is perfect. Other cars didn't have the front passenger room that the outback has. We also like the space in the rear of the car. With the seats folded down we were able to put a 70 inch TV in the car. I also buy lumber, which fits in the car. The feature I like best is the rear view camera for backing up. I have difficulty turning to see behind me, but with the camera I do not have to do that. Finally, we like the all wheel drive that is standard in all Subaru vehicles.

Janice W on January 7, 2021

Buy again. Safest car on the road

I live on a dirt road and the outback is perfect for all weather. No problems and decent mileage . Great for long trips with my dogs. Would buy again. All the extras, like seat warmers, back window wipers, puddle lights, My husband says changing the oil is so easy .

Dan M on January 5, 2021

Good overall vehicle

Overall, a reliable car. We have always experienced an issue with oil consumption but were past the designated mileage in the class action agreement before Subaru acknowledged the issue so we live with a quart of oil in the back. I do not like the CVT although we haven't had issues with it other than some brief hesitation when starting from a stop. The car looks good, is a good size for us, and gets around well in the occasional snow we have.

marjie a on January 4, 2021

It is sporty and fun, good for the family and for adventures. It is great!

I love it! Great for camping and getting to the mountains. It is also a great family car and useful for hauling the family around.

Logan E on January 4, 2021

Good handling in snow and ice.

Great handling. Reliable. Easy to maintain. Does very well in snow and ice. Good gas mileage. Very cost efficient.

Jenette F on January 4, 2021

The best thing about my Subaru is how VERY versatile it is!

I love the clearance of my Subaru Outback. There is plenty of room in the backseat for extra riders, and I like the ability to fold down the back seats to transport larger loads.

Ethan B on January 3, 2021

My Subaru is a car that I can depend on at all times. I truly love my car.

I have had my Subaru outback for a few years now. In that time, it has not broken down or had any issues. I love how it drives. The level of comfort I feel in the driver's seat is unmatched by any car I have driven in. When I am in that car, I feel completely safe, thanks in large part to the reliability and four wheel drive. I will keep my Subaru until I absolutely cannot.

Erik S on January 1, 2021

Its fast though it may not look it.

I like the all-wheel drive and how it handles the snow and rain. . It has excellent acceleration. It is a 6 cylinder so it can move pretty good. It is a smooth, comfortable ride. Very quiet car. I have no complaints.

Jeff S on December 31, 2020

It's a great family car. It's amazing in the cold weather and I'm excited for my soon to be driving kids to have a safe car.

Like how it handles in the snow. Dislike that it is burning oil quickly.

Steve R on December 27, 2020

It has anti theft. Also all wheel drive.

It has a backup camera, has individual temperature settings. I wish it had outside mirror signal light.

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.