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Subaru · Compact SUV · 2005–2009

Subaru Outback BP

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru Outback BP is available with 2 engine variants — from 165 to 230 hp.

2.5L NA · Benziner· 175 PS
2005 2009
Be Careful 2 weaknesses
Outback XT · Benziner· 250 PS
2005 2009
Be Careful 5 weaknesses

The Subaru 2.5L NA (Benziner, 175 PS) has the EJ253 (2.5L NA) — rated: "Be Careful", 2 known weaknesses.

The Subaru Outback XT (Benziner, 250 PS) has the EJ255 (2.5L Turbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Rear Wheel Bearing Fails Early

Known BL/BP issue: rear wheel bearings fail prematurely. Multiple failures on the same vehicle documented. Subaru extended the warranty. Root cause: no seal between hub and axle stub.

Symptoms: Humming from rear increasing with speed, popping sounds, uneven tire wear
from 70,000 km
Ad rear wheel bearing Subaru Outback BPwheel hub Subaru Outback 2005 2009
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,020 complaints · 2005–2009
Airbags
263 ⚠ 13
Cruise Control
163 ⚠ 12
Electrical
146
Suspension
124 ⚠ 5
Brakes
98 ⚠ 5

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (263 complaints)
⚠ Cruise Control (163 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (146 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Outback BP (2005–2009) — 7 engine-related and 4 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Suspension, Brakes, Rust, Interior.

Outback (EJ253, 2005–2009) — Be Careful: Head Gasket — External Oil/Coolant Leak, Slightly Elevated Oil Consumption. Power: 175 PS.

Outback (EJ255, 2005–2009) — Be Careful: Ringland Failure — Piston Breakage, Rod Bearing Failure, Oil Pickup Tube Crack. Power: 250 PS.

What to watch out for with the Subaru Outback? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru Outback BP have? +
The Subaru Outback BP has 7 known engine weaknesses and 4 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Outback BP? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: EJ253 (2.5L NA), EJ255 (2.5L Turbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).
Which Subaru Outback BP engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Outback BP — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} EJ255 turbo in the Outback with a manual: "2005-2007 Outback XT with a manual is as good as they'll ever get." More ground clearance than the Legacy GT, same engine. 300 whp builds running 35,000 miles without clutch issues. Compression test before buying is mandatory — the community knows the EJ weaknesses. Under $4,000 for good examples possible.
Is the Subaru Outback BP worth buying used? +
The Subaru Outback BP requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru Outback BP? +
The Subaru Outback BP is available with engine variants from 165 to 230 hp. Petrol: EJ253 (2.5L NA), EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee