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Subaru · Compact SUV · 2015–2019

Subaru Outback BS

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

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

2.5L NA · Benziner· 175 PS
2015 2019
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
Outback 3.6R · Benziner· 256 PS
2015 2019
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Subaru 2.5L NA (Benziner, 175 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
●EyeSight System Failure

EyeSight camera system shuts down in cold, fog, or after windshield cleaning. BLS failure can permanently disable EyeSight. Software update available at dealer.

Symptoms: EyeSight Disabled warning, emergency braking unavailable, warning lights on instrument cluster
from 50,000 km
Ad EyeSight camera Subaru Outback BSEyeSight calibration Outback 2015 2019
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
3,844 complaints · 2015–2019
Electrical
1434 ⚠ 11
Wipers & Visibility
977 ⚠ 4
Other
751 ⚠ 18
Engine
209 ⚠ 10
Powertrain
156 ⚠ 7

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Electrical (1434 complaints)
⚠ Wipers & Visibility (977 complaints)
⚠ Other (751 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 12 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Outback BS (2015–2019) — 7 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, Body, Gearbox, Brakes. Considered reliable: EZ36 (3.6L H6).

Outback (FB25, 2015–2019) — Be Careful: Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (2011-2014), Cam Carrier Seal Leak, Thermo Control Valve Failure (2019-2022). Power: 175 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 BS have? +
The Subaru Outback BS has 7 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Outback BS? +
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 BS engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Subaru Outback BS. 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 BS engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Outback BS — 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 BS worth buying used? +
The Subaru Outback BS 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 BS? +
The Subaru Outback BS 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