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Subaru Outback · model guide

How long does a Subaru Outback last?

Short answer: The Outback goes the distance with AWD grip — often 200k+ miles, with a couple of known items to watch on older generations.
Subaru OutbackTypical car
Typical lifespan200k+ mi150k–200k mi
ReliabilityVery goodAverage
Watch itemHead gaskets (older gens)Varies

Outbacks are known for going a long way, and their standard all-wheel drive keeps them desirable in snow country well into high mileage. Kept up, 200,000 miles is very achievable.

The historical caveat is head-gasket issues on some older boxer engines and, on certain years, oil consumption — both worth checking on a high-mileage example. A major engine repair on an aging Outback is the classic replace-or-keep fork.

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The numbers above are model-specific; the full method — the warning signs, the costs, and when planned beats emergency — is in the when should you replace your car guide.

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