2014 Subaru Outback

Introduction:

The 2014 Subaru Outback is a midsize SUV that combines versatility, safety, and all-wheel drive capability. It is offered with two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter six-cylinder. Transmission options include a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

People who like the Outback appreciate its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and excellent fuel economy. However, some owners have reported issues with various components of the vehicle.

Engine

2.5-liter Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive burning of oil, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of piston rings, valve stem seals, or engine block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the timing chain tensioner can lead to a loss of engine power or a rattling noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6-liter Six-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

CVT

• Hesitation or Shuddering:
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent hesitation or shuddering during acceleration or gear changes.
  • Solution: Software update or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: NT17-021

Suspension

• Rear Sway Bar Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or broken bushings can cause clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front End Alignment Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle pulling to one side or uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Alignment adjustment or suspension component replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can cause difficulty starting the vehicle or a dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the cause of the drain, such as a faulty component or wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ECU Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the engine control unit (ECU) can cause engine performance issues or even a no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Wiper Linkage Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken or malfunctioning linkage can cause the windshield wipers to stop working or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the wiper linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the heating or air conditioning system, such as a lack of airflow or temperature control problems.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of faulty components, such as the blower motor, control module, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Drooping or sagging headliner fabric.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 2014 Subaru Outback is generally a reliable vehicle, it has experienced some issues that owners should be aware of. The engine and transmission problems are potentially the most severe and expensive to fix, but the electrical and suspension issues can also be costly. Overall, the severity and frequency of these issues vary, but it is important to consider the potential costs and maintenance requirements when purchasing or owning this vehicle.