2009 Subaru Outback
2009 Subaru Outback
Overview
The 2009 Subaru Outback is a capable mid-size crossover SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive and comfortable ride. It offers a blend of practicality and off-road prowess, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. While generally considered reliable, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners over time. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for owners and prospective buyers of this model year.
Engine
2.5L Boxer (Naturally Aspirated)
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and often associated components like head bolts.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil drips, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $300 - $800
3.0L Boxer (H6 Naturally Aspirated)
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and often associated components like head bolts.
- Cost: $1800 - $3500
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil drips, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $350 - $850
2.5L Turbocharged Boxer
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, excessive smoke, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
- Cost: $1200 - $2500
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and often associated components like head bolts.
- Cost: $1600 - $3200
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of clutch kit (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
- Cost: $800 - $1500
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Harsh Shifting / Delayed Engagement
- Symptoms: Jerky shifts, delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse.
- Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, potential valve body or solenoid replacement.
- Cost: $400 - $1200
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
Harsh Shifting / Delayed Engagement
- Symptoms: Jerky shifts, delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse.
- Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, potential valve body or solenoid replacement.
- Cost: $450 - $1300
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Sway Bar Links/Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, especially at lower speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of sway bar links and/or bushings.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Front Strut Mount Failure
- Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
Intermittent Electrical Gremlins
- Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, door locks, interior lights, or dashboard warning lights.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1000
Alternator
Premature Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting the engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels & Seals
Rust/Corrosion
- Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage, especially in areas with road salt.
- Solution: Rust treatment and repair, undercoating.
- Cost: $200 - $1000+
Headlights
Clouding/Yellowing
- Symptoms: Reduced headlight output, hazy appearance of headlight lenses.
- Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
- Cost: $50 - $300
Interior
HVAC System
Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or intermittent fan speed.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Seat Fabric
Excessive Wear/Tearing
- Symptoms: Fabric on seats showing significant wear, tearing, or pilling.
- Solution: Seat covers or professional upholstery repair/replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $500+
Summary Verdict
The 2009 Subaru Outback is a generally reliable vehicle, particularly praised for its standard AWD system. However, owners should be aware of potential issues, most notably head gasket failures, which can be a significant expense across all engine variants. Oil leaks are also common as the vehicle ages. Transmission issues, while not widespread, can manifest as harsh shifting in automatics or clutch wear in manuals. Suspension components like sway bar links and strut mounts are typical wear items that may require attention. Electrical gremlins related to the BCM and premature alternator failure have been reported. Exterior rust can be a concern in certain climates, and interior components like the blower motor and seat fabric may show wear. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms can help mitigate many of these potential problems.