2000 Subaru Outback

The 2000 Subaru Outback is a popular wagon known for its reliability, all-wheel-drive capability, and practicality. Engine options include a 2.5L SOHC flat-4 engine producing 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L DOHC flat-6 engine with 212 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Outback’s versatility in various weather conditions and its longevity. However, common complaints include head gasket issues on the 2.5L engine, potential for rust, and some electrical gremlins.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Flat-4

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, bubbling in the coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replacing the head gaskets with multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets. Machining the cylinder heads may also be necessary to ensure a proper seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets and the rear separator plate.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals. For rear separator plate leaks, the plate itself may need to be replaced and resealed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, decreased performance, rattling noise from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L DOHC Flat-6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets and timing chain cover.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Fluid change, valve body repair, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $2,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, bouncy ride, clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear struts and springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise that increases with speed, loose steering, vibration.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per wheel bearing
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, working intermittently, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor, switch, or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system not working, only working intermittently, or only working on some doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the central locking actuator, switch, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on quarter panels, rocker panels, and wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity; $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Dash cover, dash replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2000 Subaru Outback, while a reliable and capable vehicle, is prone to certain issues as it ages. The most significant issue is head gasket failure in the 2.5L engine, which can be costly to repair. Other common problems include oil leaks, suspension issues, and electrical gremlins. Rust can also be a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems when considering purchasing a 2000 Subaru Outback.