2010 Subaru Outback

Introduction:

The 2010 Subaru Outback is a mid-size SUV that is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter six-cylinder. The 2.5-liter engine produces 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.6-liter engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The Outback is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and all-wheel drive capability. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and exterior.

Engine

2.5-liter Four-Cylinder

• Head gasket failure: This is a serious issue that can cause coolant and oil to mix, leading to engine damage. The symptoms of head gasket failure include white smoke coming from the exhaust, overheating, and coolant loss. The solution is to replace the head gaskets. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $2,000 - $3,000+.
• Timing chain tensioner failure: This issue can cause the timing chain to skip, which can damage the engine. The symptoms of timing chain tensioner failure include a rattling noise from the engine and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1,000 - $2,000.
• Oil consumption: Some owners have reported that their Outback’s 2.5-liter engine consumes excessive amounts of oil. The symptoms of oil consumption include low oil levels and blue smoke coming from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the piston rings and valve seals. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1,500 - $2,500.

3.6-liter Six-Cylinder

• No significant issues found.

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Transmission slipping: This issue can cause the transmission to lose power and make it difficult to accelerate. The symptoms of transmission slipping include a loss of power, a whining noise, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the CVT. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $3,000 - $5,000+.
• Transmission shudder: This issue can cause the transmission to shudder or vibrate when shifting gears. The symptoms of transmission shudder include a vibration or shudder when shifting gears and a loss of power. The solution is to reprogram the CVT’s computer or replace the transmission. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1,000 - $2,500.

Suspension

• Front struts leaking: This issue can cause the front struts to lose fluid, which can affect the ride quality and handling. The symptoms of front strut leaking include a bouncy ride, excessive nosedive under braking, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the front struts. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.

Electrical

• Battery drain: Some owners have reported that their Outback’s battery drains prematurely. The symptoms of battery drain include a dead battery, dim headlights, and a slow-starting engine. The solution is to find and fix the source of the battery drain. The estimated cost to fix this issue varies depending on the source of the drain.
• Alternator failure: This issue can cause the alternator to stop charging the battery, which can lead to a dead battery and a loss of power. The symptoms of alternator failure include a dead battery, dim headlights, and a warning light on the dashboard. The solution is to replace the alternator. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.

Exterior

• Roof rack crossbars rusting: This issue can cause the roof rack crossbars to rust, which can make them weak and unsafe. The symptoms of roof rack crossbar rusting include rust spots on the crossbars and a weakening of the crossbars. The solution is to replace the roof rack crossbars. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $200 - $400.

Interior

• Dashboard peeling: This issue can cause the dashboard to peel, which can make it look unsightly. The symptoms of dashboard peeling include peeling or cracking of the dashboard material. The solution is to replace the dashboard. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.
• Center console rattling: This issue can cause the center console to rattle, which can be annoying. The symptoms of center console rattling include a rattling noise coming from the center console and a loose-feeling center console. The solution is to tighten the screws that hold the center console in place. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $100 - $200.

Summary

The 2010 Subaru Outback is a vehicle that has been praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and all-wheel drive capability. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and exterior. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific issue. Overall, the 2010 Subaru Outback is a reliable vehicle that is a good choice for those who need a spacious and comfortable SUV with all-wheel drive capability.