2019 Subaru Outback Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson16 Critical Recalls
2019 Subaru Outback Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • Spontaneous windshield cracking is a prevalent and costly issue, often occurring without apparent cause and impacting visibility and structural integrity.
  • The electrical system is another major concern, with frequent reports of battery drain leading to unexpected immobilization.
  • Numerous recalls, especially for the fuel pump, indicate potential systemic component failures that require verification of completion.
  • Despite reliability concerns, the 2019 Outback earned top marks in NHTSA crash tests, scoring 5 stars overall.
Overview

2019 Subaru Outback

The 2019 Subaru Outback offers a compelling blend of all-wheel-drive capability and practicality, but used car shoppers should be aware of its reliability concerns. With a below-average reliability score, this model year is marked by frequent complaints regarding its electrical system and visibility, particularly concerning windshield cracking. A high number of recalls, including critical ones for the fuel pump, also warrants attention, suggesting potential repair costs for some owners. Despite these issues, it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star overall score. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 22 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints indicate a high likelihood of parasitic draws or battery failure, leading to a dead battery and starting issues.

Early detection can help you avoid a $600-$900 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing all-wheel-drive capability and practicality.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Shoppers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Subaru Outback Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Subaru Outback.

Specs

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 reported

Usage: 349 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 325 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation

Est. shop cost: $75 - $110

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
17 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Subaru Outback reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Subaru Outback is 3.0/10. Reliability score is 3.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 17. Owner complaints: 1,267.

How practical is the 2019 Subaru Outback for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Subaru Outback?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Subaru Outback is 5.5/10. Overall score is 5.5/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 6.9/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Subaru Outback?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Battery/Alternator) (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Subaru Outback?

Base MSRP is $36,795.

What engine is in the 2019 Subaru Outback?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2019 Subaru Outback use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Outback, transmission is Automatic (AV-S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Subaru Outback?

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Subaru Outback?

10 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Subaru Outback?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Outback, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Subaru Outback?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Outback, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Subaru Outback use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Outback, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Subaru Outback?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2019 Subaru Outback good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2019 Subaru Outback is not a platform for performance tuning. Its encrypted ECU and lack of aftermarket support make significant power g...

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2019 Subaru Outback?

Top complaint category: electrical system (349 reports, 27.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Subaru Outback?

This model year has 17 official safety campaigns listed.