2001 Subaru Outback

Introduction

The 2001 Subaru Outback is a mid-size station wagon that offers a combination of versatility, ruggedness, and all-wheel drive capability. It is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that produces 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Outback is known for its spacious interior, generous cargo capacity, and off-road capabilities, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. However, like most vehicles, the 2001 Outback has its fair share of reported issues.

Engine

2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally or internally, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, loss of power, rattling or grinding noises from engine
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaking from transmission, slipping gears, difficulty shifting
  • Solution: Replace or repair leaking seals or gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, transmission stuck in one gear
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Sway Bar Links:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Mounts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise when driving over bumps
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorber mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, engine stalling
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Bezels Peeling:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fog light bezels becoming discolored or peeling
  • Solution: Replace fog light bezels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Radio Display Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio display not working or intermittent
  • Solution: Replace radio display
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V484000
• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V446000

Summary

Overall, the 2001 Subaru Outback is a reliable and capable vehicle with a good track record. However, it is not without its issues, particularly with the engine’s head gasket and timing belt. These problems can be expensive to repair, but they are relatively rare. Other reported issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, such as exterior trim issues and interior electrical glitches.