2016 Subaru Outback Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The electrical system is the most frequent complaint area, impacting overall reliability.
- Windshield cracking is a common and potentially costly issue for owners.
- Six recalls were issued, including critical ones for the steering and driveline; verify repairs.
- The vehicle achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
2016 Subaru Outback
The 2016 Subaru Outback offers standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable, spacious interior, making it a practical choice for many. However, used car shoppers must be aware of its 'Below Average' reliability rating. This is largely due to a high volume of complaints concerning the electrical system and frequent windshield cracking. With six recalls issued, including critical ones for the steering column and driveline, a detailed pre-purchase inspection is essential to mitigate potential ownership risks and repair costs.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent issues include battery drain, leading to no-start conditions, and problems with the ignition switch. The Data Communication Module (DCM) can cause parasitic battery drain, especially after the 3G network sunset.
Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$1,000 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
Pragmatic buyers prioritizing all-wheel-drive capability and safety ratings.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal unexpected repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Subaru Outback Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Subaru Outback.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (AV-S6)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 22
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 297 reports
2. Visibility
Usage: 82 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Suspension System Inspection - Steering System Inspection - Wiper System Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Chassis Lubrication - Door Hinge Lubrication
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Subaru Outback reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Subaru Outback is 5.8/10. Reliability score is 5.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 750.
How practical is the 2016 Subaru Outback for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 512 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Subaru Outback?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Subaru Outback is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.6/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Subaru Outback?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Suspension System Inspection - Steering System Inspection - Wiper System Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Chassis Lubrication - Door Hinge Lubrication at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Battery Drain) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1000).
What engine is in the 2016 Subaru Outback?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2016 Subaru Outback use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Subaru Outback, transmission is Automatic (AV-S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Subaru Outback?
EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Subaru Outback?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2016 Subaru Outback?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Subaru Outback, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2016 Subaru Outback?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Subaru Outback, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Subaru Outback use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Subaru Outback, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Subaru Outback?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2016 Subaru Outback good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2016 Subaru Outback is a capable crossover wagon known for its practicality and all-wheel-drive system.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2016 Subaru Outback?
Top complaint category: electrical system (297 reports, 39.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Subaru Outback?
This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.