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Subaru · Compact SUV · 2020–2025

Subaru Outback BT

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru Outback BT is available with 2 engine variants — from 167 to 272 hp.

2.5L NA · Benziner· 175 PS
2020 2025
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
Outback XT · Benziner· 260 PS
2020 2025
Good Choice 5 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 XT (Benziner, 260 PS) has the FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI) — rated: "Good Choice", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
●Windshield Cracks Too Easily

Same class action as Impreza/Forester: windshields with EyeSight calibration particularly expensive to replace.

Symptoms: Rapid crack spread after stone chip
from 30,000 km
Ad windshield Subaru Outback BT OEM
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,747 complaints · 2020–2025
Wipers & Visibility
684 ⚠ 1
Electrical
391 ⚠ 8
Other
316 ⚠ 4
Collision Avoidance
134 ⚠ 13
Visibility
109 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Wipers & Visibility (684 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (391 complaints)
⚠ Other (316 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Outback BT (2020–2025) — 9 engine-related and 1 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Body. Considered reliable: FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI).

Outback (FB25, 2020–2025) — 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 BT have? +
The Subaru Outback BT has 9 known engine weaknesses and 1 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Outback BT? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI). The most reliable engine is the FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI).
Which Subaru Outback BT engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Subaru Outback BT. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 5 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Subaru Outback BT engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Outback BT — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} FA24 turbo in the Outback: 260 hp AWD with ground clearance. Fast enough for highway passes, rugged enough for dirt roads. The Outback for people who want more than just space.
Is the Subaru Outback BT worth buying used? +
The Subaru Outback BT 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 BT? +
The Subaru Outback BT is available with engine variants from 167 to 272 hp. Petrol: FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI), FB25 (2.5L NA).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee