You’re driving your Subaru Outback through Menlo Park. You’ve come to rely on this car—dependable, safe, rugged. But then, one day, your engine starts overheating, or you notice a strange vibration. Suddenly, your reliable Outback isn’t so reliable. What happened?
At M & R Auto in Menlo Park, we’ve seen it all. Subaru Outbacks, known for their longevity, still face common issues. Curious about what these problems are and how to fix them? Let’s dive in.
1. Head Gasket Failure
The 2000 to 2009 Subaru Outback models with the 2.5L engine are especially prone to head gasket failure. Ever notice white smoke billowing from your exhaust? Or maybe your engine overheats constantly? These are signs your head gasket has failed.
When coolant mixes with oil, the result is catastrophic for your engine. Repairing this means replacing the head gasket and inspecting the engine block for further damage. The fix can be pricey, but ignoring the issue leads to worse damage. Is it worth risking your engine?
2. Excessive Oil Consumption
If you drive a 2013 to 2017 Subaru Outback, you might be dealing with excessive oil consumption. It’s a known problem. You’re adding oil between changes more often than you should be.
This typically points to worn piston rings or faulty valve seals. The solution? Replacing the piston rings and valve seals or upgrading to more durable options. Think it’s not a big deal? Running low on oil can lead to engine failure, so addressing this early is key. Do you really want to push your engine that far?
3. CVT Transmission Issues
Outbacks from 2010 to 2015 with CVT transmissions can develop serious problems. Transmission slipping? Hesitation when accelerating? These are red flags.
The issue could be worn transmission belts or even a faulty transmission control module. Solutions range from recalibrating the TCM to a complete transmission rebuild. It’s critical to stay on top of this, as driving with a malfunctioning CVT can cause long-term damage. How long are you willing to wait before your car leaves you stranded?
4. Oxygen Sensor Failure
Oxygen sensors help regulate the air-fuel mixture in your engine, and if they fail, your Subaru’s performance will suffer. Outbacks from 2005 to 2012 are particularly susceptible to this issue.
The check engine light comes on, your fuel economy tanks, and you might fail your next emissions test. The solution is simple: replace the faulty oxygen sensor. Waiting only burns more fuel and harms the environment. Why waste more money at the pump?
5. Leaking Struts
A rough ride? Excessive bouncing? These are signs of leaking front struts, common in 2010 to 2015 Subaru Outbacks. Struts absorb shock, and when they fail, your suspension system can’t perform properly.
Leaking struts can also cause uneven tire wear and poor handling. If left untreated, this can affect your vehicle’s safety. At M & R Auto, we always recommend replacing both front struts to restore balance. Why risk safety when the fix is straightforward?
6. Windshield Cracking
Owners of 2015 to 2019 Subaru Outbacks often report spontaneous windshield cracks. A small chip can quickly spread across the glass, obstructing your view and compromising safety.
Many of these cracks are due to manufacturing defects or sudden temperature changes. Replacing the windshield with higher-grade glass will solve the issue and ensure the crack won’t return. Ever thought a small crack was just a cosmetic problem? Think again.
7. Battery Drain
Frequent battery drainage is a known issue in 2015 to 2020 Subaru Outbacks. The battery dies after sitting idle for just a day or two. Frustrating, right?
This issue is often caused by a software glitch in the vehicle’s electrical system. Upgrading to a higher-capacity battery might help, but resolving the software issue is the permanent fix. Why deal with constant jump-starts when M & R Auto can handle the problem?
Subaru Outbacks are built to last, but they’re not immune to problems. Whether it’s head gasket issues or battery drain, addressing these problems early can save you time and money in the long run. Have you experienced any of these problems with your Outback?
At M & R Auto, located in Menlo Park, we specialize in Subaru repairs, serving nearby cities like Fremont and Palo Alto. Our technicians are ready to get your Subaru back on the road. Ready for a solution?
