2017 Subaru Outback

Vehicle Introduction The 2017 Subaru Outback is a midsize crossover SUV known for its versatility, all-wheel drive capability, and spacious interior. It is offered with two engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated engine. Transmission options include a Lineartronic CVT and a 6-speed manual transmission (only available with the 2.5-liter engine).

Engine

2.5-liter Naturally Aspirated Engine

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, overheating
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idle, poor fuel economy
  • Solution: Clean intake valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
• Recalls: NHTSA ID 18V014000 (Timing Chain Tensioner Failure)

3.6-liter Naturally Aspirated Engine

• No Major Issues Found

Transmission

Lineartronic CVT

• Pulley Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from transmission, difficulty shifting
  • Solution: Replace pulley bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Belt Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, reduced acceleration
  • Solution: Replace transmission belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
• Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Major Issues Found

Suspension

Front Suspension:

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from front suspension, reduced ride comfort
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800

Rear Suspension:

• Rear Stabilizer Bar End Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise from rear suspension, reduced stability
  • Solution: Replace stabilizer bar end links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a period of time
  • Solution: Replace battery or find parasitic draw
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Electrical Harness Fault
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues (e.g., lights flickering, radio not working)
  • Solution: Repair or replace electrical harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Windshield Wiper Linkage Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Wiper blades not moving correctly
  • Solution: Replace wiper linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300

Interior

• Sunroof Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from sunroof
  • Solution: Tighten or replace sunroof bolts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: AC not blowing cold or heater not working
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair HVAC system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Summary The 2017 Subaru Outback is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some potential issues, particularly with the 2.5-liter engine and the Lineartronic CVT transmission. The severity of the issues varies, with some being relatively minor and others more costly to repair. Overall, the Outback is a well-rounded vehicle that has been praised for its versatility and capability, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.