Subaru Outback Used Reliability: Head Gaskets, Best Years and What to Avoid
By Caropsy · June 27, 2026 · 6 min read
Subaru ranks second in Consumer Reports' 2026 reliability rankings — and the Outback and Forester are the models most responsible for that reputation. But if you're buying older, there's one thing you absolutely need to know first: the head gasket problem on the EJ-series engines is real, expensive, and specific to certain years. Know which side of the line you're on before you buy.
Best Outback years to buy used
2015–2019 (5th gen, FA engine)The 2015 redesign brought Subaru's new FA-series 2.5L engine — a significant improvement over the old EJ that plagued earlier models. The head gasket problem is essentially gone on FA-equipped Outbacks. These are the sweet spot for used buyers who want Outback reliability without the repair risk.
2020–2023 (6th gen)The newest generation brought a completely redesigned interior, more standard safety tech, and the most refined Outback yet. Early reports show strong reliability. If budget allows, these are the cleanest used Outbacks on the market right now.
Years to avoid
⚠️ Subaru's EJ-series 2.5L engine — used in Outbacks from roughly 2000 to 2012 — has a well-documented head gasket failure problem. Coolant leaks internally or externally, leading to overheating and engine damage. Repair costs run $1,500 to $2,500 at most shops. On a high-mileage used Outback, this is not a question of if — it's when.
2000–2009 (EJ engine, high risk)The highest-risk years for head gasket failure. If you're buying one of these, assume the head gaskets have either already been replaced or need to be soon. Get documentation. Price accordingly — $1,500 to $2,500 off the asking price is reasonable if the work hasn't been done.
2010–2014 (EJ engine, moderate risk)Subaru improved the head gasket design in later EJ engines but didn't fully eliminate the issue. Lower risk than earlier years but still worth a pressure test and coolant inspection before buying.
💡 Screenshot any Outback listing and run it through Caropsy — the grade accounts for the specific year's engine and known failure history before you schedule a test drive.
How to check for head gasket issues before buying
Check the coolant — it should be clean, not brown or milky (milky means oil contamination)
Look for white smoke from the exhaust on startup
Check for a sweet smell from the engine bay (coolant burning)
Ask a mechanic to do a combustion leak test (block test) — it's cheap and definitive
Ask for service records showing coolant flushes and any head gasket work
What else breaks on the Outback
CVT transmission (2015+): Subaru's CVT is significantly better than Nissan's but still generates some complaints at high mileage. Change the CVT fluid on schedule.
Windshield cracking (2015–2019): Widely reported — the Outback's large windshield is expensive to replace ($400–$900) and owners report more chips and cracks than average.
EyeSight camera calibration (2013+): After any windshield work, the EyeSight cameras require recalibration by a Subaru dealer. Budget $150–$300 for this.
Bottom line
A 2015–2019 Subaru Outback with the FA engine is one of the cleanest all-weather used vehicles you can buy. Avoid anything with the EJ engine unless the head gaskets are documented as replaced and the price reflects the repair history. The line is clear: 2015 and newer is a different car.
Looking at a specific Outback? Get the grade before you commit.