Subarus are the go-to vehicle for outdoor enthusiasts in ads and real life. Subaru Outback and Forester are popular outdoor vehicles. As popular outdoor vehicles, it’s simple to assume they’re reliable.
We’ll check Subaru’s reliability and reputation. We’ll also look at the most reliable and least reliable Subaru models. You can trust that the information in this article is complete, accurate, and objective. So, let’s Continue.
The Subaru Brand: How Reliable Is It?
Over the last decade, Subaru has had its share of ups and downs. In 2016, the company’s reliability declined to the point where it ranked just 18th out of 36 on the reliability scale, as determined by ReliabilityIndex.
None of Subaru’s current offerings can be found among the Top 100 UK Cars as ranked by ReliabilityIndex, while the brand receives an average score of 63%.
A recent study by iSeeCars ranks Subaru as the best automaker overall, but only as an honorable mention. Subaru does not appear until number 8. In addition, only 0.6% of Subaru cars have reached 200,000 miles.
There are a lot of complaints about the Forester and the Outback on the Subaru page at Car Complaints. That doesn’t make them the most unreliable Subaru, though. On the contrary, Subaru’s reliability has been at its highest in both series. Not surprisingly, given their status as two of Subaru’s best-selling models, there have been many complaints.
List of Most Reliable Subarus
Is Subarus reliable? You won’t go wrong with any of the following models if reliability is a concern of yours.
2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru’s smallest crossover SUV, the Crosstrek, continues to sell quite well. The 2021 Crosstrek is a great option if you’re looking for a compact SUV with Subaru’s legendary durability.
According to J.D. Power, the 2021 Crosstrek has an overall rating of 81 out of 100 and a comparatively less reliability rating of 77 out of 100. More importantly, there have been zero Crosstrek recalls in the previous two years. However, It comes equipped with all-wheel drive and the most advanced safety features.
The best aspect is that the pricing is reduced.
2020 Subaru Forester
Forest, a well-known compact SUV, has earned a reputation for reliability and adaptability. Therefore, I would say that the 2020 Forester is the pick of the bunch here. From its spacious cabin, high-quality safety features, and sturdy body construction, the 2020 Subaru Forester is our top pick for reliable small SUVs.
The 2020 Forester is so trustworthy and popular with buyers that it received a full rating from Consumer Reports. The Forester may not be the most powerful or attractive vehicle on the market, but it offers the finest value for its money and gives a solid choice for regular use.
A few of the Forester’s most prevalent issues were outlined on the Subaru Complaints website:
- Unintentional speeding up
- Windows with chips and cracks
- Faulty brake light switch
- Few problems with the infotainment
2019 Subaru Outback
The 2019 Subaru Outback is an excellent vehicle for outdoor adventures because of its standard all-wheel drive, better safety ratings, and rock-solid reliability. The engine and transmission are all areas that may have been problematic, but Subaru did a fantastic job of fixing them. The 2019 Outback has a predicted dependability rating of 5 out of 5 from Consumer Reports.
There are certain issues with the 2019 Outback’s body and electrical systems. The “dumb” automatic transmission and gas mileage were the two most often cited problems. Despite the mentioned problems, driving a 2019 Outback remains a thrilling experience.
List of Least Reliable Subarus
2021 Subaru WRX
The Subaru WRX, inspired by racing cars, is an outstanding daily driver thanks to its superb traction control, responsive steering, and versatile design. And yet, it has a lot going for it regarding reliability. Unfortunately, the new 2021 Subaru WRX received a disappointingly low expected dependability rating of 2 out of 5 from Consumer Reports.
The 2021 WRX scored 75 out of 100 points on the driving test, although it did not fix many of the issues that plagued its predecessors. The 2021 WRX’s powertrain is impressive, but it falls short in other respects, particularly regarding passenger comfort and convenience.
2021 Subaru Ascent
The 2021 Ascent appears to be a reliable midsize SUV on paper, but it has several serious reliability flaws that are difficult to overlook. As a result, it isn’t ideal for road trips with the family. Consumer Reports gives the 2021 Ascent a predicted reliability rating of only 1 out of 5 stars, despite its excellent performance in the magazine’s road test.
A few of the Ascents’ most prevalent issues were outlined on the Subaru Complaints website:
- Faulty transmission
- Glitches with the power equipment
- Faulty in-car electronics
- Excessive oil usage
- Bad climate control system
2012 Subaru Impreza
Unfortunately, the 2012 Impreza was one of the worst years for this Subaru family car. Numerous issues plagued it, but the most serious was the unexpected and rapid acceleration that was too harmful.
Several accounts stated that the car exploded while idling or when the brake was applied. Several reports said there were far too many close calls, and a few even ended in traffic collisions. It’s a terrible problem that endangers everyone in the automobile.
Features of Subaru Cars
Car Safety
The IIHS has recognized models equipped with the current generation of EyeSight technology as the Top Safety Pick. There are also vintage versions that have been updated with some of the latest features.
Advance Technology
Subaru is a technological leader. Most Subaru cars have years-ahead technology. However, you’ll pay for what you receive. Subaru costs extra because of its superior technologies.
Body and Rust
Subarus rust and corrode. Consider the average Subaru driver. Because of standard all-wheel drive, many of these vehicles are in cold-weather zones. Off-roading can also cause underbody corrosion if not properly cleaned.
Repair And Maintenance Costs
Each maintenance or repair cost is more than average. It requires fewer repairs and maintenance visits than other choices. However, due to fewer models, it has a high cost and maintenance ratio.
Performance
Subaru Instead lacks power. The company emphasizes reliability and versatility. Some models have superior performance, but it’s rare. Instead, Subaru is designed to be a reliable daily car that can handle some adventure.
Engine Condition
Subaru’s BOXER engine is a perfect addition, as they’re liable. In addition, they’re more efficient, steady, and powerful than traditional engines.
What Are The Most Typical Subaru Issues?
Faulty Head Gaskets
Because of engine oil leaks, a blown head gasket is one of the most prevalent Subaru issues. As a result of the damaged head gaskets, oil or coolant leaks between the cylinder head and engine block. Over around five years and two cycles, this flaw affected nearly everyone.
We discovered fluid leaks between the engine block and cylinder head. Subaru decided to extend its powertrain warranty because the issue was so pervasive.
High Oil Consumption
Repeatedly, Subaru drivers have complained that their vehicles consume more oil than average. Even though there was no recall regarding this specific problem, a class-action lawsuit has been launched alleging that regular use of cars like the Outback, Impreza, and Forester results in high oil consumption.
Poor Infotainment System
Users have experienced display freezes, lockups, unresponsiveness, reboots, and inconsistent connectivity. It is also possible for the screen to malfunction entirely. Many 2018 models suffer from this issue.
Most often reported problems with Subaru’s infotainment system include Problems with the backup camera, including freezing or powering off, Touchscreen that doesn’t work, Inconsistent connection quality (i.e., Bluetooth)
What makes Subaru less Reliable?
We need to know what changed since the early 2010s, when Subarus were at the height of its popularity, to make them maybe less trustworthy.
One is that compared to other companies, Subaru doesn’t provide as many different models. This implies that if the reliability of even a few products in a line starts to decline, it may affect the entire brand.
They’re also less reliable in the U.K. since they’re expensive to fix when they have some accident. In the U.K., there aren’t many Subarus. Thus, repairs are pricey. Because of this, their parts are more costly and less widely available.
Nevertheless, Subaru is not the most unreliable brand, and they continue to build dependable vehicles that many motorists will like.
Should you Purchase or Pass The Subaru Car
The majority of Subaru vehicles are reliable and worth the additional money. No matter the terrain you are driving over, you may have a terrific ride thanks to the standard all-wheel-drive systems and high-tech features.
There are, however, a few models that may give you a headache. You could overextend yourself financially if you acquire one of these flaws. At that moment, it’s no use crying over spilled milk. To ensure you buy a model that justifies the increased price, do some research and buy yourself the fantastic model of Subaru Car.
FAQs
To What Extent Subaru Is Reliable?
Subaru’s dependability standing as of 2022 is just about average. In evaluations conducted by RepairPal, Subaru received 3.5 out of 5.0 stars based on 345 different Subaru models.
Is Subaru From Japan?
Subaru is, in fact, a uniquely Japanese company. Even the name Subaru means unity in English. Back in Japan, Subaru was established in 1915 as Fuji Heavy Industries. After that, it shifted to producing scooters and airplanes before making its first vehicle in the 1950s.
Is Subaru Part of Toyota?
Toyota does not now hold all of Subaru as a subsidiary, and there are no indications that they will join them shortly. However, they have a lot of power over the Subaru name. Although Subaru is a much smaller corporation, this is an excellent addition for them. Furthermore, as a member of the Toyota group, Subaru has access to a large array of its resources.
