2008 Subaru Outback

The 2008 Subaru Outback is a popular wagon known for its practicality, standard all-wheel drive, and reliability. Engine options for the 2008 Outback include a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L H6 engine producing 245 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission with the 2.5L engine, and a 5-speed automatic transmission for the 3.0L H6 engine. Owners often appreciate the Outback’s all-weather capability and spacious interior, but some dislike the fuel economy of the H6 engine and the somewhat bland styling.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, coolant bubbling in the overflow tank. The Subaru head gasket issue is often caused by an incompatibility between the engine block and head which can cause a leak.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets with updated multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets. Machining the cylinder head and block surfaces may also be necessary to ensure proper sealing.
  • 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 locations include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, decreased fuel economy, poor engine performance, and a rattling noise from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L H6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (2.5L Engine)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or shaking during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (3.0L Engine)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, erratic shifting behavior.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle, which increases with speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits noticeably lower than the front. This can be caused by worn-out rear springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear springs. Upgrading to stiffer or heavy-duty springs can help prevent future sagging.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, decreased fuel economy, poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies frequently, even after being fully charged.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain. Common causes include faulty door switches, aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust bubbles or holes forming on the rear wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting. The severity of the rust will determine the cost of the repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per wheel well
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin from the sunroof area, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Cleaning and unclogging the sunroof drain tubes. In some cases, the sunroof seal may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2008 Subaru Outback has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most significant and potentially costly issue is head gasket failure in the 2.5L engine. Other common issues include oil leaks, suspension wear, and electrical problems. While these issues can be costly to repair, addressing them proactively can extend the life of the vehicle. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. It is always advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before buying a used 2008 Subaru Outback.