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Subaru · Compact SUV · 2010–2014

Subaru Outback BR

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
4.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru Outback BR is available with 2 engine variants — from 167 to 260 hp.

2.5L NA · Benziner· 170 PS
2010 2014
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
Outback 3.6R · Benziner· 256 PS
2010 2014
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Subaru 2.5L NA (Benziner, 170 PS) has the FB25 (2.5L NA) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

The Subaru Outback 3.6R (Benziner, 256 PS) has the EZ36 (3.6L H6) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Subframe Rust (Salt Belt)

Control arm mount can break off the subframe due to rust — erratic handling possible. Safety-relevant in salt belt regions. Recall for certain rear subframes due to poor paint quality.

Symptoms: Creaking when steering, vibration over bumps, visible rust-through on subframe
from 100,000 km
Ad subframe Subaru Outback BRengine cradle Subaru Legacy
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,796 complaints · 2010–2014
Powertrain
500 ⚠ 12
Engine
279 ⚠ 5
Airbags
234 ⚠ 29
Brakes
198 ⚠ 19
Electrical
189 ⚠ 5

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (500 complaints)
⚠ Engine (279 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (234 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 9 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Outback BR (2010–2014) — 7 engine-related and 2 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Suspension. Considered reliable: EZ36 (3.6L H6).

Outback (FB25, 2010–2014) — Be Careful: Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (2011-2014), Cam Carrier Seal Leak, Thermo Control Valve Failure (2019-2022). Power: 170 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 BR have? +
The Subaru Outback BR has 7 known engine weaknesses and 2 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Outback BR? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: EZ36 (3.6L H6). The most reliable engine is the EZ36 (3.6L H6) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the EZ36 (3.6L H6).
Which Subaru Outback BR engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Subaru Outback BR. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Subaru Outback BR engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Outback BR — rated: "Decent". {description} H6 boxer in a wagon: the most relaxed Outback. No turbo lag, no head gasket cliché, just effortless progress. Fuel consumption higher than the four-cylinder, but smoothness and refinement in return.
Is the Subaru Outback BR worth buying used? +
The Subaru Outback BR is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru Outback BR? +
The Subaru Outback BR is available with engine variants from 167 to 260 hp. Petrol: FB25 (2.5L NA), EZ36 (3.6L H6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee