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2014 Subaru Outback Review: Unreliable & Weak Midsize SUV Buyers Should Avoid

Rating: 4.57
Based on 100 Owner Reviews
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2014 Subaru Outback is a mid-size crossover wagon, known for its blend of car-like handling and SUV-like utility. Building on Subaru's legacy of all-wheel drive vehicles, the Outback was originally introduced in 1995. The 2014 model is part of the fourth generation (2010-2014). Key trims include the base, Premium, Limited, and for a brief time, a 2.5i Convenience Trim. Original pricing ranged approximately from $24,000 to $33,000. Its standard all-wheel drive, ample cargo space, and raised ground clearance made it a popular choice for active lifestyles.
The Good

The 2014 Subaru Outback offers a compelling blend of practicality and adventure. Its standard all-wheel drive delivers confident handling in various conditions, appealing to the emotionally driven need for security and exploration. The Outback provides comfort and spaciousness, combined with Subaru's reputation for reliability, and making it a valuable and sensible choice for practical buyers. Decent fuel economy for its class further enhances its appeal.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2014 Subaru Outback include its somewhat lackluster base engine performance, some owners have reported excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine, and the infotainment system can feel dated. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) in some models has also been a source of concern for some owners in terms of longevity and potential maintenance costs. Inspecting the head gaskets for leaks is also recommended.

2014 Subaru Outback: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) 4-cylinder
    • 3.6-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) 6-cylinder
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.5-liter: 173 hp
    • 3.6-liter: 256 hp
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • 2.5-liter: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (CVT)
    • 2.5-liter: 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (Manual)
    • 3.6-liter: 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 2.5-liter: Approximately 9.4 seconds
    • 3.6-liter: Approximately 7.1 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 2,700 lbs (both engine options)
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base: Standard all-wheel drive, cloth upholstery, air conditioning, cruise control, basic audio system, steel wheels.
    • Premium: Upgraded cloth upholstery, alloy wheels, automatic climate control, upgraded audio system, fog lights, rearview camera.
    • Limited: Leather upholstery, power driver's seat, heated front seats, Harman Kardon audio system, wood trim, automatic headlights, dual-zone climate control.
  • Transmissions:
    • 6-speed manual (2.5i)
    • CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) (2.5i)
    • 5-speed automatic (3.6R)

2014 Subaru Outback Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2014
Make Subaru
Model Outback
Trim -
Style 5-Door
Type Wagon
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LAFAYETTE
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight 1654.7 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2129.61 kg
Overall Height 167.13 cm
Overall Length 480.06 cm
Overall Width 182.12 cm
Wheelbase Length 274.07 cm
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.5L
Engine Size 2.5L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds Continuously Variable
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $32,095 USD
Invoice Price $30,034 USD
Delivery Charges $825 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2014 Subaru Outback Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2014 Subaru Outback often revolve around the 2.5-liter engine's potential for excessive oil consumption. Some owners have reported needing to add oil between changes. There have been reports of issues with the CVT transmission, including shuddering or hesitation. While not as widespread as the oil consumption issue, CVT problems can be costly to repair. Another area of concern is the infotainment system, which can be slow or buggy.

Recalls for the 2014 Outback have included issues related to the brake light switch, which could prevent the engine from starting or the brake lights from illuminating. Check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information. Long-term reliability concerns include the potential for head gasket failures, a common issue in older Subaru models, although less prevalent in the 2014 model year compared to earlier generations. Rust can also be a concern in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and inspections, is crucial for mitigating these potential problems.

How long will the 2014 Subaru Outback last?

With proper maintenance, a 2014 Subaru Outback can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, providing over 10 years of service. Many owners report exceeding this mileage with routine maintenance. Key to longevity is adherence to the recommended maintenance schedule, including timely oil changes, fluid flushes, and inspections. Potential long-term weaknesses include increased oil consumption as the engine ages, potential CVT issues (especially with infrequent fluid changes), and wear and tear on suspension components. Rust can also become a factor, especially in colder climates. Regular rustproofing and washing can help mitigate this.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2014 Subaru Outback comes with a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. Higher trims offered a rearview camera. The base entertainment system includes a CD player, auxiliary input jack, and basic audio controls. Upgraded trims feature a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Optional features included a Harman Kardon premium audio system and a navigation system.

Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but included options like adaptive cruise control and Subaru's EyeSight system (available on some models), which included pre-collision braking and lane departure warning.

In terms of safety, the 2014 Subaru Outback performed well in crash tests. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) awarded the Outback a "Top Safety Pick" rating, indicating good performance in their crash tests. These ratings contribute to the Outback's reputation as a safe and reliable family vehicle.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Crystal White Pearl
Ice Silver Metallic
Graphite Gray Metallic
Dark Blue Pearl
Brilliant Brown Metallic
Venetian Red Pearl
Satin White Pearl
Interior Colors
Black Interior
Ivory Interior

2014 Subaru Outback Prices and Market Value

The 2014 Subaru Outback had a starting MSRP of around $24,000, with higher trims reaching approximately $33,000 when new. Current used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $16,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Outback holds its value relatively well due to Subaru's reputation for reliability and the popularity of all-wheel drive vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and geographic location (demand for AWD vehicles is higher in certain areas). Lower mileage examples in excellent condition command higher prices.

2014 Subaru Outback Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2014 Subaru Outback are generally moderate. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially for the 2.5L engine. Maintenance can be slightly higher than average due to the boxer engine design, which may require specialized servicing. Repairs can be costly, particularly for the CVT transmission. While not the most economical vehicle to own, the Outback's longevity and resale value help offset some of these costs. Long-term ownership costs are influenced by maintenance habits and the occurrence of major repairs.

2014 Subaru Outback Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 70.03 liters
City Mileage 7.23 km/l
Highway Mileage 10.63 km/l

2014 Subaru Outback Safety Rating

IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2014 Subaru Outback Recalls & Defects

Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date 2013-08-01
Recall no. 13v336000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2014 Legacy 3.6r and Outback 3.6r and 2013 Tribeca Vehicles Manufactured June 12, 2013, Through June 28, 2013 and Equipped With 5-Speed Automatic Transmissions. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Parking ROD MAY Come Loose Inside THE Automatic Transmission.
Consequence AS A Result OF THE Parking ROD Detaching, THE Transmission MAY NOT BE Able TO BE Moved From THE "park" Position Preventing THE Vehicle From Being Moved or Driven. Furthermore, Even With THE Transmission Shifted Into THE 'park' Position, THE Parking Mechanism MAY NOT Engage, and THE Vehicle MAY Roll Away While IN THE "park" Position, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Transmission, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began During August 2013. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Recall Number IS Wqj-46.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:motor
Recall date 2016-09-27
Recall no. 16v694000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2014 Legacy Vehicles Manufactured November 26, 2008, TO June 7, 2013, and 2010-2014 Outback Vehicles Manufactured January 9, 2009 TO June 7, 2013. DUE TO Contamination, Components Within THE Windshield Wiper Motor Bottom Cover MAY Interfere With Each Other. IF AN Obstruction, Such AS A Buildup OF Snow or ICE Prevents THE Wiper Arms From Being Able TO Stop IN THE Parked Position, THE Wiper Motor MAY Overheat and THE Bottom Cover MAY Melt.
Consequence IF THE Windshield Wiper Motor Overheats, THE Wipers MAY Fail, Reducing Driver Visibility and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. Additionally, THE Wiper Motor Cover MAY Melt, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Windshield Wiper Motor Bottom Cover Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 2016. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wtk-71. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 11v-469. All Vehicles That Were Remedied Under That Campaign ARE Affected BY This Campaign, and Need TO Have Their Wiper Motor Bottom Cover Replaced Again.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Parking Brake
Recall date 2018-09-13
Recall no. 18v626000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback Vehicles Equipped With A Manual Transmission. THE Electronic Parking Brake (Epb) MAY NOT Engage AS Intended, Allowing THE Vehicle TO Rollaway IF THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE Proper Gear When Parked.
Consequence A Vehicle Rollaway CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE EPB Actuator Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 19, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wtv-81.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2019-04-11
Recall no. 19v297000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester Vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza Vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX Vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy Vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback Vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca Vehicles Equipped With A Mechanical KEY Ignition Switch Installed AS A Replacement Part. THE Ball Spring Inside THE Switch MAY Break, Reducing THE Strength OF THE Ignition Switch. IF This Occurs, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring and Certain Road Conditions Could Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position TO THE Accessory Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence THE Engine Turning OFF Unexpectedly CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash. IF A Crash Occurs Under This Condition, THE AIR BAG MAY NOT Deploy, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Ignition Switch, Replacing THE Ignition Switch, IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 10, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wuf-91.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-01-09
Recall no. 19v008000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, Wrx, Outback, and Legacy Vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza Vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Front Seat Passenger, Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru IS Notifying Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 25, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkb-19.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-01-09
Recall no. 19v007000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, Wrx, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Front Seat Passenger, Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru HAS Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 25, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-19.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-01-09
Recall no. 19v009000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, Wrx, Legacy and Outback Vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza Vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Front Seat Passenger, Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru IS Notifying Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 25, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkc-19.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v001000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Sti Included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators With Alternate Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v003000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Including Sti), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkc-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v002000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Including Sti), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkb-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2014 Subaru Outback Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2014 Subaru Outback Insurance

Insurance for a 2014 Subaru Outback is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2014 Subaru Outback Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2014 Subaru Outback competes with vehicles like the Toyota Venza, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. Compared to the CR-V and RAV4, the Outback offers standard all-wheel drive and more cargo space, but its base engine performance is less exciting. The Venza, discontinued after 2015, offered a more refined driving experience but lacked the Outback's off-road capability. In terms of reliability, the Outback is generally comparable to the Toyota models, although Subaru has had some issues with oil consumption and CVT transmissions. The Honda CR-V is often lauded for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Price-wise, the Outback is generally competitive within its class.

Alternatives to the 2014 Outback include:
  • Toyota RAV4: Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency.
  • Honda CR-V: Excellent reliability and a spacious interior.
  • Mazda CX-5: More engaging driving dynamics and stylish design.

If all-wheel drive is not a necessity, the CR-V or RAV4 might be better choices due to their reputation for trouble-free ownership. For a more upscale experience, consider a used Acura RDX.

Ranks #398 SUV

Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Subaru Outback a Good Wagon?

The 2014 Subaru Outback is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and capable crossover wagon with standard all-wheel drive and ample cargo space. It's ideal for active individuals and families who need a vehicle for both daily commuting and weekend adventures. Whether it's worth buying depends on its condition, mileage, and price. A well-maintained example with lower mileage is generally a good buy. Consider the 3.6R engine for better performance. Be sure to have a pre-purchase inspection performed to check for potential issues like oil consumption and CVT problems. The Premium or Limited trims offer a better balance of features and value than the base model.

2014 Subaru Outback Owner Reviews

4.57
Overall rating
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Wayne on February 11, 2025

I’ve owned some great cars, and my 2014 Subaru Outback is

I’ve owned some great cars, and my 2014 Subaru Outback is arguably the best, most reliable and most practical car I’ve ever owned. Truly, I love my Subaru.

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Maurice on November 26, 2023

Good Car bad engine

Engine has oil burning problem… documented by Subaru however they do nothing to fix it Tried to appease me with owner loyalty certificate good towards future Subaru purchase then wouldn’t honor it

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JCGoody on June 16, 2021

Love the car!!!

Ample leg room, comfortable seating, great gas mileage, unobstructed view out the front window that allows you to see a wide view of the road and traffic. Very happy with the car. Thank you, Subaru!

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Tina & Stephany on March 29, 2021

Great Car

We have owned it for about a week. We had a little issue with the sunroof, but Craig and his staff took care of that. Also, the Back Seat Headrests are missing, and they are getting those for us.

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Nancy on January 12, 2021

So far, excellent!!!

I was looking for something I could depend on for the next 10 years and I think I've purchased it!!! Everything seems to be perfect for what I need!

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drsawdust on August 27, 2020

Very reliable car!

I've had Subaru brand since 1978. All were great cars. I stuck with Outback model as I like the space and AWD. Also had Camry, Mercedes, Corvettes etc so I wasn't just with one manufacturer.

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EasternWashingtonHobo on August 13, 2020

CVT is a bit funny

Note that this review is primarily for anyone interested in the CVT transmission in this car. We bought this car in 2020 from a private seller for my sister to use to commute to nursing school for her college, and while she's the primary driver of the car I drove it a few times just to see what it's like. I personally wouldn't recommend this car largely on the basis of the CVT. If you really think you're interested in this car for other reasons - for instance, I think it does get pretty good gas mileage, and it certainly is to convenient to have the cargo space and also to have all wheel drive - then you might be able to learn to live with the CVT, and I've actually read some reviews where people said they just learned to adjust to it. With that being said, I find it rather difficult to drive naturally with the CVT. It's very jumpy right off the line, i.e. from a dead stop, but once you pick up some speed it completely goes the opposite direction and is rather gutless if you really need/want to accelerate. I suppose if you are generally a pretty tame driver, it might not be an issue...when the gas pedal is used lightly, it gets itself moving fairly smoothly. With that being said, I think it would be very challenging to use this car in high-traffic areas or in the city - any place where the car needs to respond quickly. It just is lethargic once it's gotten above a few miles per hour. I don't have a lot to offer on other aspects of the car, mostly just wanted to put a little info out there for anyone interested in what the CVT is like. This stuff also might be something that you'd pick up from a simple test drive of the car before buying it...when we were looking at the car, I didn't have the opportunity to test drive it (I've just driven it out of curiousity, after we bought it). The car certainly does have positive aspects to it, and some people might decide they can live with the CVT because of the other positive aspects. Just wanted to throw it out there that the CVT is definitely a much different driving experience.

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Brian on August 4, 2020

Exactly what I was looking for

I was looking for a tow car for our motorhome. This one was used and came with tow hardware already installed. It low mileage and in great condition. IT is perfect for our needs.

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Seabee1970 on July 4, 2020

Most reliable car I owned

Owns the road in Minnesota winters. Pleasure to drive with the all wheel drive. Always safe with the eye sight feature. Subaru makes a superb product.

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Pastor Lou on June 13, 2020

An Excellent Value

I have owned several Subaru's and they are quality cars especially in winter driving. For reliability Subaru's are hard to beat. Great cars that Subaru owners will attest to. You cannot go wrong with owning one.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.