2017 Subaru Outback

The 2017 Subaru Outback is a popular wagon/SUV known for its practicality, standard all-wheel drive, and ample cargo space. It came with two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine producing 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners often praise the Outback’s reliability, fuel efficiency (especially with the 2.5L), and comfortable ride. Common complaints include the infotainment system’s responsiveness and the CVT’s sometimes uninspiring driving experience.

Engine

2.5L Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2017 Subaru Outback owners with the 2.5L engine have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can manifest as low oil level warnings or visible exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: A Subaru Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) exists addressing this issue. The fix may involve replacing the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L Six-Cylinder No Issues Found

Transmission

CVT (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Engagement/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh engagement of the CVT, particularly when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds. This can feel like a noticeable jerk or hesitation.
  • Solution: A software update to the CVT control module may resolve the issue. In some cases, a CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $100 - $300; CVT Replacement: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears and rough or delayed shifts.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed the rear suspension sagging prematurely, especially when carrying cargo or passengers in the rear seats. This can lead to a bumpy ride and reduced ground clearance.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shocks and springs with upgraded, heavy-duty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can be prone to freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive. This can affect access to navigation, audio, and other features.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset, updating the software, or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $0 - $100 (if DIY); Head Unit Replacement: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the car is not driven frequently. This can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery with a higher-capacity unit, checking for parasitic draws, or ensuring all electrical accessories are turned off when the car is not in use.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery Replacement: $150 - $300+; Parasitic Draw Diagnosis/Repair: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The windshield is prone to cracking easily, even from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking (Limited Instances)
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, often near the windshield.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2017 Subaru Outback, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. The most concerning is the excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine, which can be costly to repair. CVT issues can also be expensive, but software updates may provide a fix. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and battery drain are less severe but can still be frustrating. Windshield cracks are a common nuisance. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed, paying close attention to oil levels, transmission performance, and electrical system functionality.