2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback is a popular wagon/SUV known for its practicality, standard all-wheel drive, and comfortable ride. It offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). People often praise the Outback for its spacious interior, off-road capability, and comprehensive safety features. Common complaints include the sometimes sluggish acceleration of the base engine, and the infotainment system’s complexity.

Electrical

• Dead Battery
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains prematurely, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Replacement of the battery, checking the charging system for proper function and parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system freezes, lags, becomes unresponsive, or reboots unexpectedly. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also reported.
  • Solution: Software updates from the dealer, replacement of the infotainment unit in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under warranty if applicable, otherwise $500 - $1500+ depending on the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electronic Parking Brake Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The electronic parking brake fails to engage or disengage properly, leading to error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the electronic parking brake actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Vibrations
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area, especially when driving on rough roads. Vibrations felt through the seats or steering wheel.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle or vibration (loose trim, wiring harnesses, etc.). Adding sound dampening material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature regulation, weak airflow, or failure of the air conditioning system.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of climate control components such as the compressor, blend door actuator, or blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Windshields cracking easily from minor impacts or temperature changes. This seems to be a common complaint across multiple Subaru models with the EyeSight system, potentially due to the windshield design.
  • Solution: Replacement of the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the windshield type and calibration requirements for EyeSight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an unusually high amount of oil between oil changes.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to rule out leaks, and potentially replacing piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Turbocharged Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Lineartronic CVT (Both Engines)

• CVT Hesitation/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. May also experience “rubber banding” feel.
  • Solution: Software updates to the CVT control module, CVT fluid change, or CVT replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $6000+ depending on the severity of the issue and the repair required.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of bushings, ball joints, and struts, leading to noises and reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the components needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Subaru Outback experiences a range of issues, with electrical problems being a prominent concern, particularly with the infotainment system and battery drain. Interior rattles and vibrations can be annoying, while exterior issues like easily cracked windshields add to the cost of ownership. Engine and transmission issues, such as excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine and CVT hesitation, can be costly to repair. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs, so thorough inspection and maintenance are crucial.