What are the most common Subaru Outback problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2024 Subaru Outback has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EyeSight Unintended / Phantom Automatic Emergency Braking (2023-2026 Pre-Collision Braking Defect, Hall v. Subaru), Seat Heater Failure or Overheating in Front Seats, Rear Gate Control Module / Power Liftgate Failure and Uncommanded Reversal. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Outback reliable?
The 2024 Subaru Outback has 8 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: EyeSight Unintended / Phantom Automatic Emergency Braking (2023-2026 Pre-Collision Braking Defect, Hall v. Subaru). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Subaru Outback problems?
Repair costs for known Subaru Outback issues range from $0 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, EyeSight Unintended / Phantom Automatic Emergency Braking (2023-2026 Pre-Collision Braking Defect, Hall v. Subaru), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Outback EyeSight Unintended / Phantom Automatic Emergency Braking (2023-2026 Pre-Collision Braking Defect, Hall v. Subaru)?
Owners of recent EyeSight-equipped Outbacks report unintended, sudden full-force automatic emergency braking ('phantom braking') with no obstacle present — at highway speed, in fog, in construction zones (mistaking cones for vehicles), and even reverse AEB while backing up. A 202… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2024 Subaru Outback Seat Heater Failure or Overheating in Front Seats?
Owners have reported front seat heaters that stop working, heat unevenly, or become excessively hot in localized areas. Complaints and forum reports point to failures in the seat heater element, thermostat/control logic, or seat cushion wiring within this generation. The issue is… Repairs typically run $300-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2024 Subaru Outback Rear Gate Control Module / Power Liftgate Failure and Uncommanded Reversal?
Owners of 2020-2024 Outbacks frequently report power rear gate problems including failure to open or close, repeated beeping, stopping mid-travel, or reversing unexpectedly. Subaru issued service information for rear gate control module logic and initialization issues, and owner… Repairs typically run $150-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2025 Subaru Outback FA24 2.4L Turbo Direct-Injection Intake-Valve Carbon Buildup (XT / Wilderness / Onyx Turbo Models)?
The turbocharged FA24 (FA24F/FA24DIT) 2.4L boxer in Outback XT, Onyx Edition XT, and Wilderness trims uses port-less direct injection only, so fuel never washes the back of the intake valves. Carbon sludge accumulates on the intake ports/valves, typically becoming noticeable arou… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2025 Subaru Outback Driver Monitoring System and EyeSight Camera Faults Causing Persistent Warning Messages?
Owners across the 2020-2025 generation report recurring Driver Monitoring System and EyeSight-related warnings such as 'Driver Monitoring System Disabled' or temporary loss of driver-assist functions even in normal conditions. While some events are environmental, complaint patter… Repairs typically run $150-$2,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2024 Subaru Outback Rodent-Chewed Wiring (Soy-Based Insulation) Causing Electrical Faults?
Like many modern automakers, Subaru switched to soy/plant-based wire insulation, and owners widely report that rodents (mice/rats) are attracted to and chew through the harnesses, causing warning lights, no-starts, sensor faults, and blown fuses. Documented Outback repair bills r… Repairs typically run $500-$3,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2010-2024 Subaru Outback Front and Rear Wheel Hub Bearing Failure Causing Droning/Humming Noise?
Owners across multiple Outback generations report premature wheel hub bearing failure, most commonly showing up between roughly 80,000 and 120,000 miles. The classic symptom is a low-pitched droning/humming or 'beehive' noise that begins around 45-55 mph and gets louder with spee… Repairs typically run $200-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2024 Subaru Outback Premature Rear Brake Pad and Rotor Wear?
A very common owner complaint is that the Outback's rear brake pads and rotors wear out dramatically faster than the fronts — often gone by 20,000-40,000 miles while the fronts still have most of their life. Multiple owners report metal-on-metal rear pads and scored rotors at low… Repairs typically run $250-$650. Severity: low.
