2013 Subaru Outback Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant engine and power train issues are the primary reliability concerns, leading to a 'Below Average' rating.
- A high volume of complaints and 14 recalls, including critical safety items like airbags and steering, demand buyer attention.
- The Outback achieves a 5-star overall safety rating, but recall completion status is crucial.
- Expect average fuel economy with a combined 20 MPG, but be mindful of potential repair costs given the high recall count.
2013 Subaru Outback
The 2013 Subaru Outback offers a practical, all-wheel-drive package with respectable fuel economy for its class. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. The vehicle has a high number of complaints and recalls, particularly concerning the engine, power train, and airbags. Despite a strong safety rating, these mechanical and safety-related issues warrant careful consideration and thorough inspection before purchase. With 255 TSBs, potential buyers should anticipate possible quality control issues.
Critical Failure Risk
Excessive oil burning, often due to defective piston rings, leading to potential engine damage if not addressed. Reports indicate this can occur around 45,800 miles. A class-action lawsuit has been filed regarding this issue.
Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$8,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing all-wheel-drive capability and practicality over long-term, trouble-free ownership.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a highly reliable vehicle with minimal expected repair costs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2013 Subaru Outback Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Subaru Outback.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S5)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
CarFocal account required
See the full 2013 Subaru Outback buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 66 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 57 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (for 6-cyl), Oil Filter, Oil Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Balance - Inspect belts and hoses - Inspect suspension and steering components - Inspect wiper/washer systems and fluid - Service battery terminals
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.
Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $
Already have an account? Log in
FAQ
Is the 2013 Subaru Outback reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Subaru Outback is 6.8/10. Reliability score is 6.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 14. Owner complaints: 398.
How practical is the 2013 Subaru Outback for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2013 Subaru Outback?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Subaru Outback is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Subaru Outback?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (for 6-cyl), Oil Filter, Oil Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Balance - Inspect belts and hoses - Inspect suspension and steering components - Inspect wiper/washer systems and fluid - Service battery terminals at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Short Block (typical at 45,800 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,500).
What engine is in the 2013 Subaru Outback?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2013 Subaru Outback use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Subaru Outback, transmission is Automatic (S5). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Subaru Outback?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Subaru Outback?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2013 Subaru Outback?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Subaru Outback, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2013 Subaru Outback use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Subaru Outback, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S5).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Subaru Outback?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2013 Subaru Outback good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2013 Subaru Outback is a practical AWD vehicle, but its tuning potential is severely hampered by significant reliability concerns.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2013 Subaru Outback?
Top complaint category: engine (66 reports, 16.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Subaru Outback?
This model year has 14 official safety campaigns listed.