What's Wrong with the 4th Generation (2004–2009) Outback?

Outback owners have made 158 complaints about the 2004–2009 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 33rd out of 38 Subaru generations in overall reliability, with real engine and airbags & seat belts concerns.

Compare With Other Outback Generations

Common 2004-2009 Subaru Outback Problems

Some of the worst issues 4th generation Outback owners have to deal with.

  1. Melting Dashboards

    Can Subaru dashboards handle the heat? A class-action lawsuit says 2005-2009 Legacy and Outback dashboards melt into a pile of sticky, shiny goo when exposed to heat and humidity.

    Continue reading article "Melting Dashboards"

  3. Excessive Oil Consumption

    Subaru is one of a handful of automakers accused of making new engines that excessively burn through oil. And they'll tell you that adding a quart (or two) between scheduled changes is totally normal. It's not.

    Continue reading article "Excessive Oil Consumption" Top view of a Subaru engine."

  4. Leaky Head Gaskets

    Why can't Subaru build a decent head gasket? The automaker has had issues with leaky gaskets in their 4-cylinder engines since the 1980's. And repairing the issue is expensive as it requires the engine to be removed.

    Continue reading article "Leaky Head Gaskets" A close-up of a clean black head gasket above two silver pistons.

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

4th Generation (2004–2009) Outback Key Numbers

  1. 6 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 158 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 33rd in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 38 eligible generations.

Recent Lawsuits for 4th Generation Outback Owners