2024 Subaru Outback Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson
2024 Subaru Outback Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive provides confidence in various conditions.
  • A high volume of complaints, especially concerning spontaneous windshield and sunroof glass cracking, is a primary ownership concern.
  • Issues with the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system, including false activations and non-operation, pose a safety risk.
  • Electrical system glitches and visibility problems with wipers are also frequently reported.
Overview

2024 Subaru Outback

The 2024 Subaru Outback is a versatile wagon known for its standard all-wheel drive and comfortable interior, making it a practical choice for daily driving and light adventures. However, used-car shoppers should be aware of a significant number of consumer complaints, with recurring issues related to visibility, electrical systems, and forward collision avoidance. The vehicle boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings overall, but specific complaint patterns suggest potential vulnerabilities that require attention.

Critical Failure Risk

Windshields and sunroofs cracking or shattering without apparent cause, often at very low mileage. This poses a significant visibility and safety risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$700 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers prioritizing standard AWD and a comfortable, practical wagon for everyday use.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a flawless reliability record and minimal potential for costly repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2024 Subaru Outback Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2024 Subaru Outback.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 18 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 10 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Glass and AEB System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $100

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2024 Subaru Outback reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2024 Subaru Outback is 7.4/10. Reliability score is 7.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 103.

How practical is the 2024 Subaru Outback for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2024 Subaru Outback?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2024 Subaru Outback is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 4.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2024 Subaru Outback?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Glass and AEB System Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1200. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield Replacement (typical at 5,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2024 Subaru Outback?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2024 Subaru Outback use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Outback, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2024 Subaru Outback?

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2024 Subaru Outback?

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2024 Subaru Outback?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Outback, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2024 Subaru Outback?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Outback, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2024 Subaru Outback use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Outback, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2024 Subaru Outback?

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

Is the 2024 Subaru Outback good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2024 Subaru Outback, while a capable and practical vehicle, presents a mixed bag for enthusiasts looking to enhance its performance. Popular platforms: Subaru Outback XT, Subaru Outback Wilderness.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2024 Subaru Outback?

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (18 reports, 17.5% of complaints).